Lidia Todorova – Page 128 – Automobiles Review

Lexus LS Gets Exclusive Updates for MY2015

A quarter-century ago Lexus made real history in the automotive world by introducing the Lexus LS. One of the main reasons is that it was equipped with the powerful V8 engine as a standard. Back then this powerplant was a very expensive extra-cost option and not even available in others. It seems like in 2015 the history is repeating. 2015 Lexus LS features as a standard the 386-horsepower (284 kW) 4.6-liter V8 unit, which is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The nearly silent acceleration is the other striking hallmark aspect of driving a Lexus LS. In addition, the model also offers the option of a more engaging driving experience due to the addition of the F SPORT Package.

The LS 460 trim is introduced as a regular and long-wheelbase, with a choice of a rear-wheel drive or all-weather drive. At the top is positioned the LS 600h L hybrid that generates a total of 438 horsepower (322 kW) from its 5-liter V8 engine and the electric motor. This trim level also features all-weather drive.

A new multimedia system and Lexus Enform Remote are also there. The latter can be used to control certain vehicle features via mobile application. Key elements include remote door lock/unlock, remote stop/start for the engine and climate control, vehicle finder, guest driver monitor and more.

This car also comes as a standard with frequency-dependent suspension dampers that deliver agile handling and driving smoothness. Through the Drive Select, the person behind the steering wheel can select one of three settings: “Normal,” “Eco” or “Sport S”. The system automatically adjusts several performance parameters such as transmission shift points and throttle response.

Of course, “Eco” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency. The “Sport” on quickens responses for a livelier feeling, while the models equipped with the air suspension, offer two additional drive settings, “Comfort” and “Sport S+”.

Lexus LS 460 F SPORT is the trim level featuring the sport-tuned air suspension. It runs on 19-inch forged alloy wheels behind which there have been positioned Brembo six-piston caliper front brakes. In terms of exterior, the F SPORT adds a unique front fascia with mesh spindle grille featuring a black surround, larger air intake openings and round fog lamps. Its interior is adorned by Alcantara headliner, aluminum trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters.

Also new for 2015 model year are the multimedia system with enhanced Navigation features, Lexus Enform App Suite which adds Slacker and upgrades to iHeartRadio 4.0 and Lexus Enform Remote. In addition, new are also the LED dome lamps and the dynamic gridlines added to backup camera. Turning radius of the 2015 Lexus LS was reduced by four inches on cars with 18-inch wheels, which also include as a standard new suspension. The F SPORT gets badge added to rear.

In terms of safety and security the car can get an optional Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) as well as Blind Spot Monitor (BSM). The latter feature includes also Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Available luxury options for the interior include power rear seats with Climate Concierge and Ottoman Seating Package with Shiatsu massage and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a Blu-ray Disc DVD player, an SD card slot and a retractable, ceiling mounted, nine-inch full-color VGA screen.

Source: Lexus

October 23, 2014

Citroen C4 Cactus Chrome Edition Shown at Q Awards 25th Anniversary

Citroen is releasing a one-off C4 Cactus Chrome Edition in order to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Q Awards. This signifies that the company has continued the sponsorship of the event for another year, thus remaining in-tune with the UK music industry. The prestigious Q Awards took place yesterday (22 October) at the Grosvenor House Hotel and was hosted by Absolute Radio’s Christian O’Connell. In addition, Citroen revealed that it will sponsor this years ‘Best Solo Artist’ category winner – Ed Sheeran.

A fleet of chauffeur-driven Grand C4 Picasso and C4 Cactus models were there to transport the celebrity guests to the venue. The star in company’s range of vehicles at the event was the one-off chrome-finished C4 Cactus, which also appeared on the red carpet.

It immediately gathered glances and was the transport-of-choice for the French composer, performer and music producer Jean-Michel Jarre. He also got an award – the coveted Q Innovation In Sound Award.

Citroen C4 Cactus Chrome Edition includes the special Airbump feature. It does away with dents and scratches in real life and it is found on the front and rear bumpers and the sides. Airbump provides a type of buffer zone which protects the actual body. The car is also equipped with an array of driving aids such as the park assist, a reversing camera, hill-start assist, to name a few.

The C4 Cactus is powered by Citroen’s latest-generation engines. These modern and efficient engines, PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel with Stop & Start, need very little fuel to run. The gasoline powered are the naturally aspirated three-cylinder PureTech VTi 82 engine with capacity of 1.2l and the turbocharged PureTech e-THP 110 engine with a central direct-injection turbocharger and dual VVT.

On the diesel side is the BlueHDi 100 unit, which is an example of another step towards cleaner diesel, cutting CO₂ emissions to a record low 82g/km and keeping fuel consumption on a tight rein up to 91.1mpg on a combined cycle.

Source: Citroen

October 23, 2014

Petty’s Garage Ford Mustang to Debut at SEMA Show

In two weeks Ford is bringing performance oriented Mustangs to the halls of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. Among the modified Mustangs will be the Galpin Auto Sports version, as mentioned earlier today, as well as versions by other tuners such as Roush, Petty’s Garage, MRT and many more. The performance specialists will not only show how they have boosted the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine sleeping under the hood of the pony car, but also will demonstrate newly developed aftermarket parts which enhance its track handling.

Petty’s Garage will also be among the featured customizer at the show. It will be bringing a Mustang wearing Richard Petty’s famous blue paint and a discrete No. 43. The secret about this number is that this is Petty’s car number in his NASCAR days. In addition, this car will be equipped with Roush’s supercharged V8 engine.

Ford has also stated that this particular model will be auctioned by Barrett-Jackson and the proceeds will go to the Victory Junction. The latter is dedicated to helping chronically ill children attend summer camp.

2015 Ford Mustang features new independent rear suspension and multilink front suspension. They have been both improved by Roush and Steeda. SEMA will also see plenty of 5.0-liter V8s roaring around. The spotlight however will be on the new 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine.

The unit not only provides an entirely new platform for experienced turbocharging specialists, but also delivers stunning 310 horsepower (228 kW) and 434 Nm (320 lb.-ft.). Another secret revealed by Ford is that there are several tuners which will be on hand with high-powered versions of the new turbo four-cylinder.

Source: Ford

October 23, 2014

Galpin Auto Sports Reveals SEMA-bound Ford Mustang

The SEMA-bound Galpin Auto Sports Ford Mustang is a special vehicle which comes to celebrate the golden anniversary of the production Mustang. The modified pony car features a special gold theme, enhanced engine, custom LEDs and other intricate tweaks. Galpin Auto Sports (GAS) is the tuning arm of the largest Ford dealer in the United States. 2015 GAS Mustang embodies a golden anniversary design philosophy and will be of course premiered at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show.

At first the tuners gave a facelift to the iconic model via a new front fascia, which was restyled to match the three strakes found in the factory headlights. In details, the new headlights now integrate LED turn signals and turn on in sequence to match the rear turn signals. In addition, there have been also installed a carbon fiber front splitter and rocker panels as well as a more aggressive rear diffuser.

Under the hood of this Mustang is positioned the Whipple supercharger, which has been custom powder-coated to appear gold. It sits atop the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. The integrated into the hood glass window has the purpose to show off the engine. More importantly, these modifications are not only a cosmetic change, but also signify a boost in the power output. The engine generates the astounding 725 horsepower (533 kW).

Next, the car is also equipped with suspension components delivered by Steeda and new exhaust by Magnaflow. GAS also reveal that with this black and gold idea, they wanted to get the color as close to 24-carat gold as possible. Speaking of which, this GAS Mustang will be running on 20-inch wheels finished in gold. In the same color are also the side sills, brake calipers and badging.

Inside, the same black-gold theme can be found on the entire range of elements which were previously chrome or metallic. Recaro seats are covered with a fabric finished in black and gold, and the headliner is black microsuede. And if you think that the exterior is finished in paint that appears black, then you will be surprised to see that it is actually filled with gold metallic flecks.

Source: Galpin Auto Sports

October 23, 2014

Scion Teases a Sporty iM Concept

Scion iM Concept is one of the vehicles which we will see having a world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show. For this occasion, the brand has released two teaser images that show the future star of the brand. On the photos we see the iM Concept car taking some test shots. They reveal distinctively sporty front end and exactly this has been taken to the spotlight. Scion says that the iM concept vehicle is a reflection of the evolution of company’s design philosophy which aims to catch the attention of youthful customers.

It will probably be a hot hatchback judging form the sporty compact appearance. In fact, rumors say that two new models will be introduced next year. One of these cars will be based on Toyota’s Auris hatchback. Looking at the front of the concept, particularly at the headlights and front grille, in the teaser image, it definitely looks like that this will be a derivative of the Auris.

Form the released images we also see that car will be running on aggressive low-profile tyres wrapped around sporty-looking wheels and featuring drilled brake rotors. If Scion iM is a hatchback as we suppose, than it will be the firs one for the brand.

Another thing coming in question is whether this vehicle will use Auris turbocharged engine, or will there be any new surprises. Another possibility for the iM concept is that it can actually be a model which will replace the-soon-to-be-discontinued xB.

Unfortunately, ahead of the official release date, which is 19^th of November, we don’t expect to get more details from Scion. So we have to wait until then to solve the mystery.

Source: Scion

October 23, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Introduces S550 Premium Sports Edition in Japan

Mercedes-Benz is currently introducing exclusively in Japan the S550 Premium Sports Edition. The car will go on sale later this month and will be produced in a limited run of only 200 units. This special model is based on the long-wheelbase version of the S550 and features the AMG sport package. The exterior of the vehicle, depending on the preference of the future owner, can be either the exclusive Obsidian Black or White Diamond paint schemes. These paint finishes will available only and exclusively for the S550 Premium Sports Edition.

Furthermore, this Mercedes will be running on 20-inch AMG alloy wheels. The sporty styling I continued inside the cabin. Here we see black Nappa leather seats, designo ash wood trim and a leather/wood steering wheel.

In addition, the car also comes packed with chauffeur package. It features executive rear seat, heated seats, heated armrests as well as a rear seat entertainment system – among other things.

The company hasn’t’ said anything about engine configuration so this probably indicates that the car will retain the standard unit. The S550 Coupe is driven by the 4.7-liter biturbo V8 engine. It produces 449 horsepower (330 kW) and 699 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque.

These figures help the special Japan edition S550 run from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 130 mph. Mercedes-Benz S550 Premium Sports Edition will cost the lucky owners ¥18,100,000 which is approximately $169,000 USD.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 22, 2014

Ringbrothers Shows Sketches of 980 HP Chevrolet Chevelle Ahead of SEMA Reveal

Ringbrothers are going to SEMA Show with unique Chevrolet Chevelle. They have released four sketches which give us the idea of what we are to see at the event. The car made back in the 1966 will now take a contemporary form and will benefit from the cool features the modern automobile technology can offer. In addition, the tuning company has also announced that the project will be dubbed “Recoil” and will blend the pure power of a race car with the sleek and detailed finish of a show car.

What is more, the Recoil project will be equipped with a Chevrolet’s LS7 V8 engine, which pushes out 980 horsepower (720 kW) to the rear wheels. The unit is fitted with Whipple-supercharger and a custom Flowmaster exhaust system.

In addition, the customization specialists also said that the car has been renovated and features hand-laid carbon fiber panels and trim pieces. This Chevy Chevelle runs on modern HRE Wheels and there are also several other details just like the LED-lights.

Chevelle was introduced in 1963 and was created with the aim to compete with Ford Fairlane. It was offered in two-door hardtop coupe and convertible variants as well as four-door sedans and station wagons. Six-cylinder and V8 power was offered across the board.

In 1966, the Chevelle saw a complete restyle of the previous frame, which featured smooth contours, new grille and bumper as well as curved side windows. The engines offered back then were the 327-cubic-inch V8 and the mid-level 220 horsepower 283-cubic-inch V8 unit. Options included tachometer, mag-style wheel covers and sintered-metallic brakes.

Source: Ringbrothers

October 22, 2014

Heico Sportive Teases Custom Volvo XC90

Heico Sportiv Volvo XC90 is a project that we eagerly await. The tuning company has just released the first teaser image of the upcoming customized car and the news that the specialists have already begun developing a comprehensive accessories and equipment features for this Scandinavian premium SUV. Other details haven’t been disclosed yet, but we expect this to happen in the coming months.

As we can see from the image, the car is covered in poison green color paint scheme and we also wonder whether there will be any changes in this direction. In addition, the rendering also suggests that there will be a lowered suspension and of course new alloy wheels.

The second generation XC90 was unveiled prior the Paris Motor Show but celebrated its official public unveil there. The market launch of the car is scheduled for May next year. This model is the first Volvo which is built on company’s Scalable Product Architecture and in addition it is powered by four-cylinder Drive-E engines.

Volvo is offering a range of petrol and diesel engines. In particular, the gasoline units are the T5, which produces 254 hp (187 kW) & 350 Nm (258 lb-ft), and the T6 turbo- and supercharged engine, which is rated at 320 hp (235 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The diesel powerplants are also two: the D4 with 190 hp (140 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) as well as the twin-turbo D6 producing 255 hp (189 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft).

Volvo has also announced that there will also be a powerful plug-in hybrid version dubbed T8. It offers a combined output of 400 hp (294 kW) and generates 640 Nm (472 lb-ft) from a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter and an 80 hp electric motor. The electric motor alone offers a range of 40 km (25 miles). Other attractive features in the new XC90 are the T-shaped LED daytime running lights and the 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the SUV can offer space for up to seven people.

Source: Heico Sportiv

October 22, 2014

Lancia Ypsilon ELLE is Part of Artissima 2014

Lancia Ypsilon ELLE is partnering with the “Artissima” International Contemporary Art Event, which will take place in Turin from 7th to 9^th of November. The exhibition incorporates 194 galleries, in which in display will be artists from 34 different countries, 9 of which are new additions with respect to the Fair’s last edition. For the “Artissima 2014”, Lancia is providing the organizers with a fleet of cars for an exclusive ‘VIP Courtesy Car’ service.

An example of the new Ypsilon ELLE will also be present. The car was recently unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and marks the collaborations between the company and Elle magazine. Precisely, the new “ELLE” edition is made with new paints, materials and exclusive finishes. It sits atop of the model range and also represents Lancia’s design philosophy.

The company has entered three new colors created to the range. This is an example of the refined lines and the distinctive personality of the Ypsilon. In particular, this car can be covered with a Glam Powder Pink paint, which was created by Centro Stile Lancia exclusively for the model. The second one is the Glacè White and the third is a two-tone combination, in which Glam Powder Pink is sharply contrasts the Vulcano Black roof.

This is further strengthened by the dark chrome finishes on the grille, fog light frame and handles and body-coloured mirrors. Ypsilon ELLE runs on 15″ diamond-finish or 16″ Powder Pink diamond-finish alloy wheels, and it stands on the pillars are the “ELLE” logo in dark chrome and the exclusive Houndstooth graphics.

The same glamorous touch can be also seen applied inside the car. A specific has been used for the seats with cushion and backrest in black Alcantara with electro-welded ELLE graphics and Powder Pink leather bands with black stitching. The same leather can be also seen on the door panels, the dashboard fascia and the mat edges.

In addition, black leather with Powder Pink stitching covers the steering wheel and gear knob. The front Alcantara headrests were adorned by the ELLE logo and the Glam Powder Pink key cover also features this logo.

Source: Lancia

October 22, 2014

Rare 1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback to be Auctioned at Silverstone

1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback is an extremely rare car. In fact, it is one of the three right-hand drive automatic examples ever produced. The model is going to be part of Silverstone Auctions’ final sale of the year that will take place at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show on the 15th and 16th of November. The car is estimated to cost the future owner between £800,000 and £900,000.

It carries the chassis number ‘BC9D’ and was ordered on the 31st March 1954 by Mr. Alan G Clark. He has done so much about it that he has even bought it a new automatic gearbox as well as several special features. Some of these include electric window lifts, flat petrol tank, Smiths ventilation and heating system and two RD 8187 Foglamps that substitute the standard centre lamp.

The car is a D Series, which means that it is equipped with a larger 4.9-litre engine. It also features lightweight, aluminium coachwork which was being handcrafted by H. J. Mulliner & Co. This Bentley will be sold with an extensive history file for major works undertaken, and as you can see its current owner has maintained it to the highest standard. Some of the refinements include full respray in Shell Grey and mid-blue hide interior and dark blue Wilton carpets.

Silverstone Auctions are making history since 2011 with the aim to sale classic cars, modern supercars, all types of competition cars, contemporary and historic motorcycles as well as automotive memorabilia. The company holds the exclusive automotive auction rights for Silverstone circuit. It not only hosts sales but also stand-alone events such as the Silverstone Classic Festival.

Source: Silverstone Auctions

October 22, 2014

Nissan Prices 2015 Pathfinder

2015 Nissan Pathfinder is ready to go on sale from today across the United States. The emblematic SUV was entirely redesigned two years ago, and now for the 2015 model year it comes to offer great levels of versatility, unmatched for its class fuel efficiency as well as the comfort for seven passengers. The vehicle will be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions, which will be powered by the 260 horsepower (191 kW) 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engime.

Precisely, the Pathfinder gets a number of improvements including a Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) added to SL and Platinum grades. In addition, the standard Xtronic transmission gets enhanced D-Step Shift logic and Hill Descent Control was added to four-wheel drive models.

There are three optional packages offered. The first one is the revised SL Tech Package which includes Around View Monitor and tow hitch and harness. Next comes the revised SL Premium Package that adds the same monitoring system and Nissan’s Navigation system. At last, the Family Entertainment Package adds dual headrest 7.0-inch DVD Family Entertainment System.

In the new model year, the SV trim is getting new fog lights, auto dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink Universal Transceiver and heated side rearview mirrors. On the other hand, the SL trim level adds 120V power outlet. The Platinum trim level comes as a standard with a Dual Panorama Moonroof.

Nissan is offering for the 2015 Pathfinder nine exterior colors in total, six of which are new. Those to be introduced include: Java Metallic, Midnight Jade, Gun Metallic, Magnetic Black, Glacier White and Pearl White.

Furthermore, the Pathfinder comes running on 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, with unique 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels offered with the Platinum model. The interior of the model features a comfortable seating for seven, along with an innovative EZ Flex Seating System with LATCH AND GLIDE.

A wide range of optional features are also offered, including Nissan Advanced Drive-Assist Display, leather-appointed seating, Around View Monitor and 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The optional 8.0-inch touch-screen monitor is mounted in the middle of the instrument panel. It displays important information and the control of the Nissan Navigation System.

Also optional are the Heated and Cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, programmable Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Traffic and NavWeather. The list of optional features continues with the Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, RearView Monitor, Remote Engine Start, Tri-Zone Entertainment System, Dual Panorama Moonroof and Easy Fill Tire Alert.

2015 Nissan Pathfinder will be available in four optional packages: SL Tech Package, SL Premium Package, Family Entertainment Package and Trailer Tow Package.

2015 Nissan Pathfinder US Pricing:

Pathfinder S 2WD	$29,510 USD
Pathfinder SV 2WD	$32,810 USD
Pathfinder SL 2WD	$36,060 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 2WD	$41,410 USD
Pathfinder S 4WD	$31,200 USD
Pathfinder SV 4WD	$34,500 USD
Pathfinder SL 4WD	$37,750 USD
Pathfinder Platinum 4WD	$43,100 USD

Source: Nissan

October 21, 2014

2016 Acura ILX Gets Teased Ahead of Los Angeles Reveal

2016 Acura ILX is getting readied for an official reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show next month. With this entry Acura is aiming to bring higher standard in the entry-premium sedan segment. The expansion in the general appeal of the car includes a comprehensive update that features a strong new powertrain, more forceful and muscular sporty exterior styling as well as entirely upgraded interior design.

Just like in the TLX model, Acura will give the upcoming 2016 ILX sharper performance focus and at the same time – greater comfort, convenience and safety. The brand didn’t reveal much more details, except for the teaser image of the rear of the car you see. The official unveiling of the ILX will happen on 20th of November at the event.

Judging by the released image it looks like the brand is getting more aggressive about moving the ILX away from its Civic roots. In fact, it also seems like it wants to turn the new model in to Acura’s future luxury car.

What we can expect in terms of power is that the new ILX will draw more of its powertrain. We don’t know whether it will be a new one or just a boosted old one. As a reminder, the previous generation ILX is driven by a 2.0 liter i-VTEC.

This unit produces 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque, and is coupled with a five-speed automatic gearbox (5AT). When equipped with the Technology Package or Premium Package, the car gets the more potent 2.4 liter i-VTEC engine that generates 201 horsepower (148 kW), and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

More details are expected to be revealed ahead of the debut, so stay tuned!

Source: Acura

October 21, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova