Lidia Todorova – Page 131 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-Benz G-Class Celebrates 35 Years with World Record and Special Model

Mercedes-Benz G-Class is celebrating its 35th anniversary via a world record and an introduction of a special edition model. The global adventure taken by Gunther Holtorf and his wife Christine set out in their Mercedes-Benz 300 GD started with the aim to visit as many of the countries around the world as possible. When they embarked on the journey, their G-Class was just ten years old. Today, the vehicle is 26 and just under 900,000 kilometres, and more importantly – has visited 215 countries later.

To celebrate this record, the marathon vehicle will take pride of place in the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, where it will be shown to visitors. In addition, ‘Otto’ – the adventurous G-Class will also be made immortal in the Guinness World Records. Even more: since the finish of this unique journey around the world will coincide with the 35th anniversary of the G-Class, Mercedes will also mark the occasion with the launch of the special edition models G 350 BlueTEC Edition 35 and G 500 Edition 35.

The exclusive G-Class Edition 35 special model features the same body lines as its first ancestor. In fact, the body has been unchanged for 35 years and this exclusive Edition 35 clearly demonstrates this. It will be available for the G 350 BlueTEC and G 500 models and come to celebrate the anniversary.

The vehicle will be running on 18-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in bright black, while the front and rear bumper, wheel arch linings, exterior mirrors and the roof sparkle come in obsidian black metallic. They contrast to the designo mystic white bright or palladium silver metallic paint finishes. There is also an option of an obsidian black metallic paint finish for the body.

As a standard Mercedes has introduced here the Sports package, which features AMG wheel-arch flaring and on the G 500 with sports exhaust system. There is also a Chrome package with chrome highlights in the radiator grille, chrome surround on the seat adjustment switch panel and loudspeakers or the door sill panel in the luggage compartment with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering.

Inside, the Edition 35 models features two high-grade leather upholstery and appointments options. They are available in two-tone designo porcelain/black or single-tone designo black. In both cases red contrasting topstitching further emphasizes the sporty character of the car. Also featured here is the Exclusive package with leather-covered dashboard, AMG performance steering wheel and designo trim in black piano lacquer as well as the roof liner in stylish designo black DINAMICA microfibre.

Mercedes-Benz Edition 35 G 350 BlueTEC has a starting price of €84,900.00, while the G 500 – €94,800.00.

300 GD world-record tour at a glance:

Duration	26 years
Total kilometres	897,000, equivalent to about 22 times around the Earth or Earth – Moon and back plus another two times round the Earth
Of which kilometres off-road	250,000
Countries visited	215
Borders crossed	410 (outside Europe)
Ocean container shipments	41
Deep-sea ferry passages	113
Highest point	Base Camp Mount Everest 5200 metres above mean sea level
Lowest points	Dead Sea/Death Valley, both around150 metres below sea level
Coldest place on the tour	Near Irkutsk, Siberia, -27 degrees Celsius
Hottest place on the tour	Australian outback near Alice Springs,+50 degrees Celsius
Other statistical data	Total time spent driving equivalent to 3.5 years
	Stops at border posts around half a year

Technical data Mercedes-Benz 300 GD:

Design/body	Ladder-type frame with bolted-on body, Long Station Wagon
Engine	5-cylinder in-line diesel engine
Mixture formation	Indirect diesel pre-chamber injection, Bosch piston injection pump
Displacement cc	3005
Output, kW/hp	65/88 at 4000 rpm
Torque, Nm	170 at 2400 rpm
Transmission/drive	4-speed manual transmission, engageable all-wheel drive, low range, engageable differential locks front/rear
Length/width/height mm	4395/1700/1950
Wheelbase mm	2850
Kerb weight/payload kg	2105/695
Expedition weight ‘Otto’ kg	3300
Top speed km/h	130

Source: Mercedes-Benz

October 14, 2014

Volkswagen Auctions First e-Golf Before Official Sale in November

The first electric Volkswagen e-Golf is going to be auctioned before its US market debut in November this year. Volkswagen of America and Global Green USA has collaborated together to make the auction possible. It is hosted online at Charitybuzz, which gives bidders the opportunity to be the first owner of company’s first all-electric model. The proceeds will go to Global Green USA – an environmental non-profit organization, which is a leader in smart and environmentally-friendly solutions to climate change.

2015 e-Golf is scheduled to go on sale in November, which means that the successful winner of the bidding will be the first US citizen to drive it. Volkswagen’s first fully electric vehicle produces zero tailpipe emissions and requires zero trips to the pump, because it operates entirely on electric power. This model is part of company’s strategy of introduction of new and highly efficient drive systems.

The emissionless e-Golf is based on Golf’s new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform. It is powered by a 24.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and an electric motor that produce 115 horsepower (85 kW) and 270 Nm (199 pound-feet) of torque, and has a 7.2 kW onboard charger and DC fast charging standard. In addition, this Golf also offers one of the largest interiors in its class.

2015 Volkswagen e-Golf is due to go on sale in the US in November with a starting price at $35,445 USD for the fully equipped SEL Premium model. The bids for the first model will be accepted until 29^th of October.

Source: Volkswagen

October 14, 2014

Updated 2015 Toyota Camry NASCAR Racer Revealed

Toyota and its Racing Development division (TRD) have just introduced the new 2015 Toyota Camry race car. Next season, the vehicle will take part in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) competition. With this model, the company becomes the first in the series to update the NASCAR ‘Gen-6’ model. The Camry has been redesigned and will also be cmpeting in next year’s NASCAR Xfinity Series.

The update of the car results in a new identity, it looks similar to the 2015 production Camry introduced earlier this year. For this car, TRD worked together with Calty Design, and together they have redesigned the racer, which now incorporates design elements from the new 2015 production car.

Just look at the aggressive front end and grill area that looks exactly like its production counterpart. What is more, the new Camry also features sleek hood and nose, and a brand new tail. The sleeker look is further enhanced via a distinct change in the quarter windows.

The redesigned Toyota Camry racer is a byproduct of the improved collaboration between NASCAR and Toyota. The Japanese company aimed to remodel its Gen-6 race car to more closely resemble its serial production version.

2015 Toyota Camry will make its debut at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at Daytona International Speedway during February’s ‘Speedweeks.’

Source: Toyota

October 14, 2014

Lamborghini Huracan by Print Tech

Print Tech Lamborghini Huracan is wrapped in a special Centurion Black Chrome foil. The complete car wrapping is a result of the work of the specialists at Munich Print Tech company. What happened with a Lamborghini Huracan is that it got an absolutely professional application of complete wrapping type „Centurion Black Chrome”. And as you can see the bolide has experienced a marvelous metamorphosis that has given this Lambo the ability to shine in a really other light.

There are many benefits of this technique. The first one is of course protection, the second is the fact that the car can be transformed into its original state without any problems and at any time. And at last, but not least – even the most eccentric color attracts envious glances.

No other modifications have been made to this vehicle, so it keeps its production characteristics. To remind you, the 2014 Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 is driven by a 5.2 liter V10 engine, which produces 610 horsepower (448 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.

This allows the Huracan to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 9.9 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). The model also has an engine start/stop system that ensures an average fuel consumption of 12.5 L/100km (18.8 mpg US / 22.5 mpg UK) and CO2 emissions of 290 g/km. The engine is connected to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and an all-wheel drive system.

Source: Print Tech

October 13, 2014

Toyota GT-86 14R-60 Limited Edition is Production Version of Griffon Concept

Toyota GT-86 14R-60 Limited Edition is a production continuation of the Griffon concept which was revealed last year. In fact, it is a super lightweight GT-86 which won’t be seen elsewhere but Japan. Just like the Griffon, this limited edition Toyota is driven by 2.0-liter boxer poweplant. There are no enhancements in its power, meaning that it generates 197 horsepower (145 kW) and 205 Nm (151 pound-feet) of maximum torque.

Nevertheless, the engine was touched slightly and now has new air filter, engine oil cooler, a reinforced clutch, lightweight flywheel, and mechanical limited-slip differential from TRD. The transmission here is the six-speed one, but in the case of GT-86 14R-60 it is improved, with different gearing in first and second and an altered final drive ratio.

Furthermore, the suspension of the model has new coilovers, there is also a V-shaped tower brace in the front and rear. Toyota also took care about the brakes, which were upgraded. In terms of exterior the car is equipped with a body kit that features carbon-fiber roof and huge rear spoiler. 18-inch forged magnesium wheels add to the final look.

The interior of the car gets TRD-branded race seats with four-point harnesses as well as Alcantara. There are no rear seats. This limited edition model will be produced in 100 units only and is intended only for the Japanese market.

Source: Toyota

October 13, 2014

2015 Mazda2 to be Launched in Europe

2015 Mazda2 that was unveiled in July is heading for Europe. Mazda’s next-gen supermini will debut at an exclusive driving event that gets under way at Mazda Space in Barcelona on 3d of November. In addition, the model will also be the highlight of several national motor shows and other events in autumn and winter. The five-door hatchback combines the complete range of SKYACTIV technology with a stunning KODO – Soul of Motion design. This technology includes Active Driving Display and a human-machine interface.

The car will be powered by a range of four engines, including the SKYACTIV-D 1.5-litre, which delivers 105 hp (77 kW) and maximum torque of 220 Nm (162 lb-ft). This unit need uses only 3.4l per 100km of fuel while the respective emissions are rated at 89g/km.

The second engine option is the petrol SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre that comes in three variants producing between 75 hp (55kW) and 115 hp (85kW). They deliver fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures ranging from 4.5-4.9l/100km and 105-115g/km. Transmission options include the five- and six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmissions as well as a six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic.

The new European supermini will also get the SKYACTIV-Chassis and linear sporty handling. In terms of safety features, Mazda has included in the car a set of i-ACTIVSENSE active safety systems featuring Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).

And although the kerb weight of Mazda2 is just 970kg, the model provides excellent passive safety protection. The reason for this is the innovative architecture of its SKYACTIV-Body, which contains significantly greater quantities of lightweight high and ultra-high strength steels.

2015 Mazda2 is scheduled to go on sale in Europe early next year.

2015 Mazda2
Engine		SKYACTIV-G 1.5 (75 ps)	SKYACTIV-G 1.5 (90 ps)		SKYACTIV-G 1.5 (115 ps with i-ELOOP)	SKYACTIV-D 1.5
Max. power	kW(PS) /rpm	55(75)/6,000	66(90)/6,000		85(115)/6,000	77(105)/4,000
Max. torque	Nm/rpm	135/3,800	148/4,000		148/4,000	220/1,400-3,200
Emission rating		Euro 6	Euro 6		Euro 6	Euro 6
Transmission		5MT	5MT	6AT	6MT	6MT
Fuel consumption*	l/100km	4.7	4.5	4.8	4.9	3.4
CO2 emissions*	g/km	110	105	112	115	89
Exterior dimensions
Overall length					mm	4,060
Overall width					mm	1,695
Overall width (mirror to mirror)					mm	1,983
Overall height (without shark fin antenna)					mm	1,495
Wheelbase					mm	2,570

Source: Mazda

October 13, 2014

Remodeled 2015 Subaru Impreza Goes on Sale

The remodeled 2015 Subaru Impreza, which was revealed at the end of September is, now going on sale. The compact four-door and five-door models now come with revised front styling, which includes new front bumper, grille and headlights. The aerodynamics is enhanced via the new exterior mirrors, low-profile trunk spoiler on the four-door models. The sedans also feature LEDs for the center high mounted stop lamp.

All Impreza models are driven by a 148 hp (109 kW) 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine and are equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as a standard. Also standard for the Premium and Limited trims in the new model year is the Lineartronic CVT, which includes revised shift logic for a more natural feel. The base 2.0i and the Sport Premium trims will come equipped with five-speed manual transmission.

Impreza also offers wide range of standard amenities including tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat backs, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display with fuel economy information, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth control switches. Additionally, at no cost also come the remote keyless entry and security system with engine immobilizer and the Rear Vision Camera. The standard wheels on which the car runs are the 16-inch alloys. There is also a rear suspension stabilizer bar.

The optional All-Weather Package includes 2-stage heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer, optional 17-inch wheels, power moonroof, fog lights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Next, the Impreza 2.0i Sport Premium is a five-door model running on standard 17-inch alloy wheels and equipped with fog lights, turn-signal mirrors, roof rails, unique seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. An option here is the power moonroof.

The five-door Limited and Sport Limited stand at the top of the range and include leather seating, new infotainment systems, turn signal exterior mirrors, a color LCD in the gauge cluster, Welcome Lighting and leather-wrapped steering wheel. There is also an additional exterior chrome trim that distinguishes the Limited.

Inside, the driver and occupants will enjoy the upgraded the infotainment system. It includes 6.2-inch multi-function touch screen, AM/FM stereo and HD Radio, Radio Data Broadcast System, single-disc in-dash CD player, single-touch gesture control, Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration with Aha Infotainment, Pandora Radio and iHeart Radio, a rear vision camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod control capability, USB port and four speakers.

The Limited trim adds a six-speaker audio system and a 7-inch touch screen display with multi-touch control. It also features voice-activated controls, SiriusXM satellite radio, vehicle information display, iTunes tagging capability and dual USB ports.

2015 Subaru Impreza will be available in dealerships in a starting price of $18,195 USD.

2015 SUBARU IMPREZA

Model/Trim

Transmission

Available Option Package

MSRP

MSRP +
destination and delivery

Impreza 4-door models

2.0i

5MT

01

$18,195

$18,990

2.0i

CVT

01

$19,195

$19,990

2.0i Premium

CVT

11,12

$20,995

$21,790

2.0i Limited

CVT

21,22,23

$22,295

$23,090

Impreza 5-door models

2.0i

5MT

01

$18,695

$19,490

2.0i

CVT

01

$19,695

$20,490

2.0i Premium

CVT

11

$21,495

$22,290

2.0i Limited

CVT

21

$22,795

$23,590

2.0i Sport Premium

5MT

11

$20,995

$21,790

2.0i Sport Premium

CVT

11,14

$21,995

$22,790

2.0i Sport Limited

CVT

21,22,23

$23,295

$24,090

2015 SUBARU IMPREZA OPTION PACKAGES

OP 01 Standard Model 2.0i Base	N/A
OP 11 Standard Model 2.0i Premium or Sport Premium	N/A
OP 12 Alloy Wheel Package + Moonroof	$1,500
OP 14 Moonroof	$1,000
OP 21 Standard Model 2.0i Limited or Sport Limited	N/A
OP 22 Moonroof + Keyless Access & Start	$1,500
OP 23 Moonroof + Navigation System + EyeSight +Keyless Access & Start	$2,795

Source: Subaru

October 13, 2014

GT Line Pack is Now Ready for 2014 Renault Clio Hatchback

Renault Clio Hatchback GT Line Pack - Front Angle GT Line Pack is now available for the European version of the Renault Clio Hatchback. The new pack has been designed in the same spirit as previous found in models such as the Megane. The new GT equipment makes the Clio even more exclusive and with a distinctive sporty look. GT Line Pack was specifically developed for the model by Renault Sport Technologies.

In addition to the existing Clio R.S. 200 EDC and Clio GT 120 EDC, the line-up of sporting Clios has been extended with the launch of the new GT. The reason for this was the strong response from those customers, who were looking for a distinctive look.

To go further into details, the GT Line Pack provides the hatchback version of the Clio with a sporty stance thanks to a number of bold features that immediately set it apart. What is more, the GT version of the Clio can also be specified with the iconic Malte Blue body colour as an option.

Those who are getting the pack will also get new front bumpers incorporating daytime running lights. In addition, there are also body colour lower door protective strips and a specific rear bumper with single exhaust tail pipe. Dark Metal details can be seen on the daytime running light trim, door beading, door mirror housings and diffuser.

Renault Sport door sill guard and GT Line badging on the tailgate also adorn the car, which runs on special 17-inch Design GT wheels. The GT Line Pack is optional for the Zen and Intens versions of the Clio Hatchback. This means that this model will be driven by one of these powertrains: TCe 90 and TCe 120 EDC petrol, dCi 75, dCi 90 and dCi 90 EDC diesel.

Source: Renault

October 13, 2014

Ferrari Shows the Exclusive F60America

This year marks the 6oth anniversary since a Ferrari model has stepped on North American ground. To celebrate this, Maranello has returned to its 1950s and 60s tradition of producing strictly limited edition cars. As a result the company is currently presenting the Ferrari F60America, which will be produced in only 10 examples. Furthermore, the car combines the two of the greatest passions Americans have: the V12 engine and open-top driving. F60America will be revealed tomorrow evening at an anniversary celebration gala dinner at Beverly Hills City Hall.

Just 10 F60Americas will be built, and this is an example take directly from the1967 275 GTS4 NART Spider that was specifically requested from Enzo Ferrari for his US clients. As mentioned, the car is driven by Ferrari’s award-winning mid-front-mounted V12 which enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds.

The personality of the car is instantly clear from its flanks which are characterised by an innovative diapason design theme. At the front, this Ferrari features the classic Ferrari single front grille with chrome finish and integrated air intakes for the brakes.

A couple of leather-trimmed roll-hoops are backed by carbon-fibre-trimmed flying buttresses that stretch from behind the cockpit to the rear. The driver’s area is emphasized via cabin’s asymmetrical design. At the same time the passenger side is decided in black and inspired by the historic Ferrari competition cars.

Furthermore, the cabin trim is exclusive with the dash, tunnel and door panels on the driver’s side all swathed in composite materials. The racing seats also include a stylised American flag motif on the centre of each seat and backrest.

What first strikes the viewer is that the F60America’s bodywork has adopted the classic North American Racing Team livery. It also features the special Ferrari 60th anniversary Prancing Horse badge on the wheelarches and on the tunnel in the cabin.

Source: Ferrari

October 10, 2014

Maserati Introduces 100th Anniversary Ghibli S Q4 Neiman Marcus Edition

2015 Maserati Ghibli S Q4 100th Anniversary Neiman Marcus Edition was introduced in the legendary Christmas Book. Only 100 units of the unique vehicle will be produced and eventually made available at a price tag of $95,000 USD. The vehicle features a bespoke combination, which will not be offered on the current Maserati Ghibli.

Ghibli is named after a North African wind and just like it this limited edition model is hot and powerful. It has flowing curved lines accentuated by the aggressive grill and bold triple vents, which perfectly illustrate car’s unique combination of elegance and sportiness.

The vehicle is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, which was exclusively produced in collaboration with Ferrari. It helps the Maserati sprint from 0 to 60 in a mere 4.7 seconds. In addition, the car is fully equipped with Q4’s all-wheel drive technology that handles any all-weather driving conditions.

The exterior color of this special edition is called Grigio Maratea. What is more, a centennial-exclusive combination of premium exterior and interior options additionally sets the car apart. For instance such is the premium leather in Cuoio with Piano Black lacquer trim. Gloss Black door handles, a shadowline exterior trim, 6 piston front and 4 piston rear brake calipers in red as well as commemorative centennial center caps add additional visual strength to the car.

Furthermore, to make it even more exclusive, the models will get a special Neiman Marcus Edition number badge and 100th anniversary logo. They are placed on the center console. Black contrast stitching on the seats, dashboard and armrests are also highlighted by a black stitched trident on the headrests. Other features that need to be mentioned are the shift paddles and the 1,280 watt Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system, front and rear parking sensors, heated steering, heated front and rear seats among other luxury options.

Source: Maserati

October 10, 2014

Vortsteiner’s Program for Lamborghini Huracan

Vorsteiner is adding to its Nero program the new Lamborghini Huracán. Just like they have done with their Aventador, the Californian-based tuners will be designing, testing and fabricating many wheel and aero components, which were specifically created for the Huracán platform. The first pictures are at hand and we promise you that they are worth viewing!

First, look at the wheels. In the case of this hot red Lamborghini, it runs on 20 and 21 inch special edition VSE-003 forged wheels wheel combination specifically tailored to maximize both inner and outer clearances. What is more, the choice of Vorsteiner to add 20 inch at the front and 21 inch at the rear was to appropriately suit the radius of the Lamborghini fenders. The wheels come in Matte Black finish and are fitted with Pirelli P Zero in the dimensions of 245/30/20 and 325/25/21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Next, the company is famous for its spectacular aerodynamic components. The tuners are currently working on many cutting edge aerodynamic enhancements which will additionally improve the nearly perfected design as seen in the rendering below.

This Rosso Mars Huracán is the perfect example of what stands behind the philosophy of Vorsteiner. What drives the company is the pursuit of unique creations, to be the forefront of innovation and art. More details about this exciting project are coming soon.

Source: Vorsteiner

October 10, 2014

German Special Customs Previews the BMW i8 iTRON

BMW i8 is a plug-in-hybrid racer, powered by 1.5 litres of displacement spread across three cylinders that produce 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft). There is also an electric motor which generates 131 hp (96 kW) PS and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft). The combination of both is enough for offering an output similar to this of a “real” sports car. In fact, the car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h. The fuel economy is stunning: 2.1 litres of gasoline per 100 kilometres.

BMW i8 has been available on the market for several months and now the customization specialists at German Special Customs have prepared some styling enhancements for it. At this particular moment, they offer only design drafts of the new look of the project called “iTRON”.

At first sight, GSC’s vehicle looks more aggressive and powerful. Some of the new features include distinctively shaped front spoiler bumper with large cooling air inlets, integrated LED daylight headlights and a spoiler sword with winglets, as well as air outlets integrated into the new motor cowl.

At the back we have exhaust end tubes. End-tube blinds aligned with the shapes of the i8 are integrated in the new rear apron, which also repeats the winglets of the side sills and visually leads on until behind the rear wheels. At last, the serial wheel/tyre combination has been substituted with much wider and with larger diameter.

Source: German Special Customs

October 10, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova