Lidia Todorova – Page 132 – Automobiles Review

Limited Edition Opel ADAMs by Bryan Adams

Seven examples of the Opel ADAM Limited Edition designed by Bryan Adams will be auction and all the proceeds will go to “Bryan Adams Foundation”. The auction on Germany’s largest charity auction portal, United Charity, is open for bids for the camouflage look ADAMs. The Foundation of the Canadian rock star looks after people in need around the world.

This special edition features an exterior in camouflage look and is powered by the standard 1.4-liter gasoline engine which features Start/Stop technology. The unit produces 100 horsepower (74 kW) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) of torque, while its CO2 emissions are estimated at around 199 g/km.

Inside, the vehicle is equipped with black leather trim, which makes it differ from other ADAM models. It also includes automatic climate control, heated seats for the driver and front passenger, leather steering wheel and the award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system with 7-inch color touchscreen.

Apart from designing the camouflage look ADAM, the cooperation between the singer and Opel included the artistic direction and shooting for the 2014 Opel Calendar. This calendar was presented to the public in Munich earlier this year under the name “The ADAM by Bryan Adams”.

As a matter of fact, Adams began his charity work by making the organization in 2006 through which he aims to improve the quality of people’s lives around the world. The Foundation seeks to protect the most vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals in society. The goal it has is to advance education and learning opportunities for children and young people worldwide.

Source: Opel

October 10, 2014

Renault Releases Top-of-the-Range Captur Signature Trim

Renault Captur Signature is the top-of-the-range trim level of the compact-crossover. This modification steps on the Dynamique S MediaNav version and adds wide range of extras. On the outside we see it rolling on 17-inch Explore alloy wheels with black inserts and chrome exterior details on the side strips. Also noticeable are the boot lid, front grille and fog lights. The exterior is decided in two-tone paint finish as a standard. There is an optional color called Flame Red metallic paint.

Inside, the Captur Signature gets enhancements via the part-leather upholstery, Signature door sill plates and mats and the Red Touch Pack, which adds bright red detail to the centre console, speakers and air vents. The technology features here include R-Link infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, satellite navigation, USB connectivity and 4 x 35W Arkamys radio with 3D sound.

There have been also added a rear parking camera with the rear parking sensors and Grip Xtend advanced traction control system. Other special features included in this trim are the electric folding door mirrors, automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, tinted rear windows and tailgate, Bluetooth connectivity and LED daytime running lights.

Renault is offering the Captur Signature with a choice of two petrol and diesel engines. The gazoline line-up comprises of a 0.9-litre TCe 90 engine coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, and a 1.2-litre TCe 120 with six-speed, dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The diesel option is the 1.5-litre dCi 90 engine with manual and an automatic transmission.

Version	VED Band	CO2 (g/km)	MPG (combined)	0-62mph (secs)	Top speed (mph)
Captur Signature ENERGY TCe 90 Stop & Start	C	115	56.5	13	106
Captur Signature ENERGY dCi 90 Stop & Start	A	95	78.5	13.1	106
Captur Signature TCe 120 Auto EDC	D	125	52.3	10.9	119
Captur Signature dCi 90 Auto EDC	B	103	72.4	13.5	106

Source: Renault

October 9, 2014

Toyota Prius+ Updated for MY 2015

Toyota Prius+ is a seven-seat hybrid MPV which now has been refreshed for the 2015 model year. It can show off with new styling, equipment features and color choices. The front-end of the car has been redesigned and now includes a new upper grille and a more prominent Toyota badge that extends the forward line of the bonnet. One can not pass the new LED headlights, too, with their slim profile and contrasting black and chrome plating.

In addition, the lower grille is now in trapezoid shape, while the new gloss black metallic exterior paint finish further highlights the presence of the car. The bumper corners have been given extra emphasis in a flowing form that extends from the headlights to the new air intakes and LED daytime running lights.

At the back of the car one can see a new combination lamp design with “light guides” as well as red inner lenses. The new licence plate trim and bumper now feature an integrated diffuser. There are two body colors new for the palette: Dark Sherry metallic and Attitude Black mica.

Modifications have been done inside, staring with the dark silver metallic finish for the driver’s switchgear and the air conditioning dial control and a chrome finish for the door handles. In the center console one finds two chrome-trimmed, slim-line air vents and a new 4.2-inch colour TFT information screen. The latter displays important vehicle information.

As a standard, the 2015 Prius+ comes equipped with Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, which includes touchscreen control, Bluetooth and reversing camera. This system can be upgaded – Toyota Touch 2 with Go, in order to deliver additional satellite navigation, live traffic information, expanded range of connected services, text-to-speech function and 3D city modelling with landmark graphics.

Furthermore, other standard equipment features include electric seat adjustment, a front centre armrest and Intelligent Park Assist. In terms of safety, Toyota has provided emergency brake signal as a no cost option.

Prius+ also comes with improved ride and handling, reduced noise intrusion in the cabin and the hybrid powertrain has been upgraded to comply with Euro6 emissions standards. More details, specifications and pricing to be announced close to sale date.

Source: Toyota

October 9, 2014

Porsche Reveals 911 Carrera GTS Models

The second generation 2015 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS models are here! They come in coupe and convertible variants and with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. These two new cars are the link between the 911 Carrera S and race track tested 911 GT3. The dynamic performance of the models is strengthened via the 430 horsepower engine from the Carrera S Powerkit which incorporates the Sport Chrono package and Sport Exhaust. In addition, as a standard they come with PASM active damper system, which brings the vehicle 10 mm closer to the ground.

PDK stands for Porsche Doppelkupplung dual-clutch transmission, and it is what helps the 911 Carrera GTS accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds. The cabrio variant does this in 4.0 seconds. Top track speeds for the GTS models range from 187 to 190 miles per hour, depending on drivetrain and transmission.

Next, the standard equipment here includes Bi-Xenon™ headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and the Sport exhaust system. The latter delivers an unmistakable GTS sound. The interior is adorned by Alcantara. This high-quality material can be seen on leather-trimmed sport seats, precisely on their center panels.

All GTS models are based on the 911 Carrera 4 body with flared rear wheel arches and a wider track. From the outside, the new GTS is different from the other Carrera variants. It features standard are 20-inch center lock wheels, painted in an exclusive gloss black. In addition, other special trim elements are the tinted Bi-Xenon headlights accentuate. On the other hand, the black trim strips on the customized GTS air intake and black chrome-plated exhaust tailpipes distinguish the rear of the Carrera GTS models.

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS has a starting price of $114,200 USD, while the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet – of $126,100 USD. The models will be available in dealerships by the end of the year.

Source: Porsche

October 9, 2014

2015 Honda CR-Z Goes on Sale

2015 Honda CR-Z has just gone on sale. It will offer its future customers sleeker and sporty proportions and styling along with spirited performance and high efficiency. The latter is due to the powertrain which drives the CR-Z. Under its hood finds itself the 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) electric motor.

The powerplant is coupled with a either a short-throw six-speed manual transmission or sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters. The combined peak horsepower of the engine and motor is 130 horsepower (95 kW) while the torque is rated at 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) or 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) on CVT models).

As a standard this Honda model will come equipped with Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, Bluetooth Audio, rearview camera, an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers. There are also at no cost option the following features: automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry and cruise control. By the way, the feature-rich EX trim comes also equipped with the aforementioned goodies.

Those who are keen on more performance-oriented driving will have the opportunity of adding an enhancement delivered by Honda Performance Development (HPD). HPD is offering full range of track-proven, street-reliable performance upgrades and accessories. In details, these include front brake, sport suspension and exhaust kits, limited-slip differential, clutch, 18-inch alloy wheels and spoilers.

2015 Honda CR-Z has a starting price of $20,145 USD.

TRIM	MSRP5	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1 (city/highway/combined)
CR-Z 6-speed manual	$20,145	31/38/34
CR-Z CVT	$20,795	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual	$21,990	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT	$22,640	36/39/37
CR-Z EX 6-speed manual with Navi	$23,490	31/38/34
CR-Z EX CVT with Navi	$24,140	36/39/37

Source: Honda

October 9, 2014

BTR Hyundai Genesis Coupe in Preparation for SEMA Show

Blood Type Racing (BTR) has teamed up with Hyundai for a project which will have the “wow-effect” on anyone who sees it. The Chicago-based builder specializes in extracting extreme, street-friendly performance of the Korean vehicles. Precisely, BTR has specifically modified this Genesis for SEMA Show and it now features a host of engine upgrades, suspension changes, and exterior and interior modifications. BTR Genesis Coupe combines massive power with the true, adrenaline pumping experience of underground racing. The car will be revealed at the show 4th of November.

To go further into details, the coupe uses the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, BTR has customized it and now the unit includes new sleeves and larger displacement. There is also an addition of a high-boost Precision Turbo turbocharger, strengthened and fully balanced internal components, a custom intake, intercooler, full exhaust kit and nitrous injection.

With all of the aforementioned enhancements, the powerplant of the BTR Genesis Coupe can generate over 800 horsepower (588 kW) to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, BTR has also worked on Genesis’ appearance. They have added a custom wide body kit designed for BTR. The kit includes 40mm-wider front and 60mm-wider rear fenders, front bumper lip spoiler, rear diffuser and a GT wing.

Inside, the tuning specialists promise that we are to see Tanabe OLED Revel gauges, Sabelt racing seats and harnesses. The steering wheel is also new and it is provided by Sabelt, while the roll cage – from Cusco.

BTR Genesis Coupe Specifications:

Engine modifications:

Brian Crower BC625+ Forged Connecting Rods
CP Pistons 8.5:1 Compression 90mm Bore Forged Pistons (2.2ltr)
Darton International Cylinder Sleeves
Cosworth 90mm Bore Race Head Gasket
Brian Crower Oversized Stainless Steel Valves
Brian Crower Valve Guides
Tomei Powered Valve Springs
GSC Stage 2 Cams
ARP Head Studs
ARP Main Studs
ARP Flywheel Bolts
ARP Cam Tower Studs
BTR Custom Intake Manifold
Clevite coated Bearings
Upgraded Engine Mounts
BTR Custom ECU Tuning utilizing the OEM Hyundai ECU

Turbo Kit:

Intensepower T4 Twinscroll Top Mount Turbo Manifold
Precision Turbo 6266 Ball Bearing Twin Scroll Version 2 Turbo
Precision Turbo PW46 External Wastegates
GFB G-force II Electronic Boost Controller
Custom Down Pipe
Modified MXP Dual Exhaust System
Custom Precision TurboIntercooler System
Custom Oil Cooler System
Custom Fuel Return System
Custom Fuel Rail
Custom External Dual Pump Fuel Setup
Upgraded Injectors

Nitrous Kit:

Nitrous Express Direct Port Nitrous System
Nitrous Express Purge Kit
Nitrous Express Bottle Heater
Nitrous Express Bottle Blanket
Nitrous Express Billet Bottle Bracket

Drivetrain Modifications:

Competition Clutch Upgraded Clutch Kit
Competition Clutch Flywheel Kit
Enthuspec Stainless Steel Clutch Line
Tomei Powered Trax Advance 2 way LSD
Upgraded Driveshaft
Upgraded Axels
Short Throw Shifter
Shifter Bushings
Upgraded Transmission Mount

Chassis and Suspension Modifications:

Stance Suspension Coilover System
Stance Suspension Cup Kit
Whiteline Sway Bars
Strut Tower Braces and Body Braces
Enthuspec Adjustable Sway Bar End Links
Enthuspec Rigid Subframe Collar Kit
Wilwood Performance Brake Kit
Toyo R888 Tires
19-in. WORK Wheels Custom 2 Piece Wheels

Interior Modifications:

Sabelt GT-200 Carbon / Fiberglass shell Racing Seats
Sablet Sliders
Sabelt Racing Harnesses
Sabelt SW-390 Racing Steering Wheel
Planted Seat Brackets
Tanabe OLED Revel Gauges
Cusco Roll Cage
BTR Custom Rear Seat Delete

Exterior Modifications:

Custom Wide Body Kit Designed by Kei Miura
Custom Wide Body Front Fenders
Custom Wide Body Rear Fenders
Custom Front Bumper Lip Spoiler
Custom Rear Diffuser
Custom GT Wing
Custom Candy Red Paint

Source: Hyundai

October 9, 2014

BMW Teases the M6 GT3 Racer

BMW M6 GT3 has just been presented with couple of sketches. This means that the company will cease the Z4 GT3 racer and substitute it with the new car based on the powerful and aggressive BMW M6 Coupe. This will happen by the end of next year and the car is planned to compete in the GT racing from 2016. At the moment, the racecar is under development and its first track tests will start in the beginning of next year.

BMW specialists also reveal that the properties of the car make it predestined to succeed the BMW Z4 GT3. In addition, they also wanted to show the high product substance of BMW M cars in motorsport.

Under the hood of the M6 GT3 will be sitting an optimized version of the standard car’s 4.4-liter turbocharged V8 engine. The power output is expected to be between 500 hp and 600 hp. In addition, the chassis will also be improved for the racetrack.

Although the car will be based on the M6, it will feature a lot of lightweight components and will loose a lot of its unnecessary equipment. The weight it must achieve is between 1200 and 1300 kilograms. Furthermore, the M6 GT3 will be also equipped with a racing gearbox and ABS brakes.

Source: BMW

October 8, 2014

AC Schnitzer BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe is the Perfect Blend of Performance and Comfort

AC Schnitzer BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe combines perfectly the sporting performance of a coupe with the comfort of a saloon. The tuning package first delivers enhancements to the exterior. Take a look at the new front spoiler and rear diffusor, which provide better ground adhesion. The carbon mirror covers, chromed front grille and rear skirt protective film prove that this car is the perfect blend between sporting performance and comfort.

Inside, AC Schnitzer gave the interior additional comfort. There are the new aluminium handbrake handle in “Black Line“ style, the gear knob with digital gear display, the illuminated leather gear knob or the aluminium “Black Line“ gear knob. The aluminium pedal set and foot rest, AC Schnitzer keyholder and foot mats in velours round out the interior improvements.

There are various wheels to choose form for the BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe. The Aachen tuners offer a choice of four different types: Type VIII forged alloys in BiColor, Type VIII rims in BiColor (black, silver or anthracite), Type IV wheels in silver or BiColor, and Type IV rims in BiColor black.

In terms of engineering, this BMW received various performance upgrades. The AC Schnitzer version of the 428i develops 294 hp (216 kW), while the 435i produces 360 hp (265 kW). In addition, the 420i now offers 245 hp (180 kW).

The diesel engines were also uprated and their figures are the following: 420d now delivers 218 hp (160 kW), the 430d and 435d generate 309 hp (227 kW) and 360 hp (265 kW), respectively. There is also available AC Schnitzer intercooler for the petrol engines as well as engine styling for all versions.

The enhanced power output is further underscored by the throaty sound of the AC Schnitzer silencer. It comprises of two chromed tailpipe trims, which comes in a choice of “Racing Evo“, “Racing“ or “Sport“ style, in right/left combination.

At last, the sports suspension here is a first-class setup, lowering the front axle by 10 – 25 mm and the rear by 5 – 15 mm. There is also an available suspension spring kit, which lowers the 4-series by up to 25 mm at the front and brings the rear 10 – 25 mm closer to the ground. The AC Schnitzer racing suspension ensures spirited cornering and delivers 30 – 40 mm lowering on the front and 25 – 40 mm on the rear.

Source: AC Schnitzer

October 8, 2014

Lamborghini Huracan GT3 Shown on Track for the First Time [VIDEO]

Lamborghini Huracán GT3 was shown on the track for the first time in Vallelunga (Rome). The evidence for this is the video below, which was officially released by Lamborghini. The Huracán GT3 made the testing on the ”Piero Taruffi” circuit under the supervision of Giorgio Sanna. The drivers were the two official Lamborghini Squadra Corse test drivers Adrian Zaugg and Fabio Babini. With joint forces the team set up the new race car for the first time.

The Huracán GT3 is an example of the next step for Lamborghini towards development and production of a race car for one of the most prestigious international categories. In fact, the GT3 model will be company’s first in-house racing project.

There not much revealed by Lamborghini, but the rumors say that the car will be powered by the 5.2-liter V10 engine, which is expected to produce up to 600 horsepower (441 kW). According to the GT3 configurations, cars must meet certain power to weight ratios and they must produce outputs between 500 and 600 horsepower. The weight is should be between 1200 and 1300 kg.

After the tests, Sanna confirmed his satisfaction with the Huracán GT3. Although they had much work to still do with the car, he found its performance and reliability feedback is encouraging. Sanna will be competing next season in the 2015 Blancpain Endurance Series. The racings are scheduled at five venues in Europe such as the Spa 24 Hours.

httpv://youtu.be/bF28ssh-gP4

Source: YouTube

Source: Lamborghini

October 8, 2014

Suzuki Updates the SX4 S-Cross Range

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range has received a major update. The company has removed the SZ4 model, but added the 1.6 SZ-T CVT and 1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP models to the range. Every S-Cross comes fitted with wide range of equipment as a standard. Precisely, the new no-cost options include seven airbags for optimum protection, ESP and Tyre Pressure Monitoring as well as Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

Furthermore, the updated Suzuki also runs on new alloy wheels. Other standard features in the equipment include the cruise control with speed limiter, air conditioning, heated door mirrors, black protective skid plates and black wheel arch extensions.

Next, the SZ-T is the model which adds satellite navigation with DAB digital radio and rides on polished 17-inch alloy wheels. It also features Dual Zone automatic air conditioning, front fog lamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, silver roof rails and silver skid plates, rear parking camera and rear parking proximity sensors.

In fact, research showed that 70% of customers who has purchased SX4 S-Cross chose SZ-T or SZ5 versions. The added SZ-T model to the range is now to include the petrol powered CVT, while the ALLGRIP models will offer wider choice of higher specification versions.

Updated Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range:

Model	CO2 emissions
1.6 SZ3 Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ-T Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ-T CVT	125g/km
1.6 SZ5 Manual	127 g/km
1.6 SZ5 CVT	125 g/km
1.6 SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual	135g/km
1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual	135 g/km
1.6 SZ5 ALLGRIP CVT	130 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ3 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ4 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ-T Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ5 Manual	110 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ-T ALLGRIP Manual	114 g/km
1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual	114 g/km

Source: Suzuki

October 8, 2014

Volvo’s New Drive-E Powertrain Concept Delivers more than 450 Horsepower

Volvo’s Drive-E Powertrain Concept is delivering unique mix of performance and efficiency. Precisely, this unit is a triple boost 2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine which is potent to produce no less than 450 hp. More interestingly, the 450 hp (331 kW) High Performance Drive-E is based on a set of technologies not usually found in a four cylinder engine. The powerplant utilizes two parallel turbochargers that draw force from electrically powered turbo-compressor.

The compressed air from this unit is used to spool up the two parallel turbochargers. Furthermore, the fuel is fed by a dual fuel pump working at 250 bar pressure. This power density, along with the triple boost installation and unique fuel system, enables a very dynamic drivability.

The engine has already attracted the attention and involvement of Volvo Cars suppliers AVL, Denso and Volvo Polestar Racing at an early stage. They have allowed the theories and technologies that they are using for racing to be infused in the development process.

This combination of technologies will end up in a unique engine with its high power yet quick response. What is more, its compact size enhances weight distribution between the front and rear axle and lowers the center of gravity. This had a major effect on the handling of the car using the engine.

In addition, the compact powertrains deliver more space and have less weight, thus entirely modifying the structure of the car. The freed space and saved kilograms can be used for electrification and even additional emissions reduction.

Source: Volvo

October 8, 2014

Roush Reveals Custom 2015 Ford Mustang RS Lineup

Roush Performance is famous for its customization projects involving muscle cars. Under the lights toady is Roush’s latest freshly redesigned Ford Mustang. The aggressive 2015 RS lineup will be built on the Mustang’s V6 platform. The first Stage will feature the new turbo-charged Ford 2.3L Eco-Boost motor, while the second – the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8. All of the modified Mustangs will get the R7, or the seventh generation aero-body package.

To go further into details, the R7 kit comprises of an entirely remodeled fascia with integrated aero-pockets, a five-blade upper grille, high-flow lower grille with driving lamps, and a front chin splitter. Along with the aggressive new look, the Stage 1 and Stage 2 get the new ROUSH quad-tip performance exhaust system.

There are also available suspension setups that deliver handling boost as well as new Quicksilver 20-inch Roush wheels. They were wrapped in the Roush/Cooper RS3-S ultra high-performance tires.

Inside, the vehicle was also modified. The cabin now includes Roush embroidered floor mats and a serialized dash badge. There is an optional gauge cluster and leather seating upgrades. There will be also offered several exterior and interior options, including side quarter window scoops, body side scoop, hood scoop and more.

The Mustangs will first be available in manual coupes. Later, the convertible chassis and automatic transmissions will follow. 2015 Roush Ford Mustang Lineup is expected to be available at dealerships in mid October.

Source: Roush

October 7, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova