Author: Lidia Todorova

  • Ford Celebrates 5-millionth Ford F-Series Super Duty

    2015-Ford-F-250-Super-Duty-King-Ranch-FX4-THUMBFord will celebrate the production of the 5-millionth Ford F-Series Super Duty next month. In the range of 15 years, Ford F-Series Super Duty pickup trucks as well as from F-250 to F-550 chassis cabs have been constructed in the assembly line at Kentucky Truck Plant. The latest 2015 Ford F-250 Super Duty King Ranch FX4 offers maximum horsepower and torque and gets the work done. In addition, its powertrain be as efficient as possible, thus operating at low costs.

    The original 1999 Super Duty got the gasoline Triton 6.8-liter V10 engine, which produced 275 horsepower (202 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the 7.3-liter diesel engine produced 235 horsepower (173 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb.-ft.) of torque.

    Today, Super Duty’s 6.2-liter gasoline V8 unit generates additional 110 horsepower to the figure of the 1999 V10, making a total of 385 horsepower (283 kW) and 549 Nm (405 lb.-ft.) of torque. The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel supplies 440 horsepower (324 kW) and 1165 Nm (860 lb.-ft.) of torque. Despite the higher outputs, these engines are more fuel-efficient than the 1999 powertrains.

    Both contemporary engines generate power through the efficient TorqShift six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission. In contrast, the transmission in the 1999 Super Duty trucks was a four-speed automatic and six-speed manual, with the latter one available only with the diesel. TorqShift transmission delivers live drive power takeoff, or PTO, to power auxiliary equipment such as snowplows, aerial lifts, tow truck lifts, cement mixers and dump trucks.

    In addition, the Super Duty trucks are also famous for their capability. 1999 F-350 Super Duty pickup had a maximum tow capacity of 14,600 pounds. 2015 F-450 Super Duty pickup leads the way with a tow rating of 31,200 pounds. With its new tow rating, the 2015 F-450 has 40,400 pounds towing capacity.

    Source: Ford 

  • Volvo V40 Cross Country Gets All-Wheel Drive

    Volvo-V40-Cross-Country-THUMBVolvo has announced that its V40 Cross Country will get an added capability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD). The Drive-E powertrain with a 245 hppetrol turbo T5 engine is currently being introduced for the V40 Cross Country. This combination of the Drive-E T5 unit with AWD will make the driving experience for customers more adventurous and they will get all the control they need in any road condition.

    The powertrain of the vehicle also delivers 245 hp (180 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the Swedish company is also adding the eight-speed automatic gearbox with optional paddles on the steering wheel for manual gear shifting.

    Furthermore, the model also shows impressive CO2 reductions. Since last year’s introduction of Volvo’s ground-breaking four-cylinder Drive-E engines, they have been praised for their unique ability to combine power and efficiency with a small footprint.

    The new powertrain has decreased emissions, rated at 149 g/km, when one compares it to the previous generation model. This figure is unmatched for instance by the Audi Q3 TFSI Quattro (179 g/km), the BMW X1 xDrive20i xLine auto (170 g/km) and the Mercedes-Benz B-class (SUV) 220 Sport 4MATIC DCT (156 g/km).

    Besides the engine upgrade, V40 Cross Country has also received various enhancements. New additions are the 19” Damara alloy wheel with grey diamond-cut rims. They not only offer extra comfort and off-road capability, but also less noise and added rim protection. There are also new exterior colour, called Power Blue, updated on-board infotainment and navigation system, Sensus Connect.

    Source: Volvo 

  • High-Strength Steel Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology Concept to Debut at SEMA

    2014-Chevrolet-Silverado-Toughnology-Concept-THUMB2014 Chevrolet Silverado Toughnology is a SEMA-bound concept which is built with high-strength steel that makes it lighter, stronger and more efficient than the conventional carbon steel vehicles. In addition, this concept also displays Silverado’s connectivity technologies such as the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. The high-strength steel is pressed while still in molten form. In fact, it can be 30 percent lighter than the carbon steel that has the same strength. In addition, it also delivers great weight savings at a lower cost than aluminum. This also contributes towards better fuel efficiency and capability.

    Silverado 1500 which is powered by the EcotTec3 5.3L V-8 engine has an EPA fuel economy rated at 23 mpg on the highway. What is more, it offers a maximum trailering capacity of 11,200 pounds. As an option, Chevrolet is also offering the 6.2L V-8 engine equipped model as well as the new eight-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to them the Silverado’s trailering capacity increases to 12,000 pounds.

    For the construction of Silverado Toughnology the engineers have used nearly 67 % of the durable material. Precisely, it is utilized in the A-pillars, B-pillars, rockers and roof rails and strategic sections on the interior structure. Furthermore, the ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody, which helps improve performance in crashes.

    The floor is made of roll-formed steel, which is also a lightweight material but more durable than the conventional stamped steel. Silverado also strategically uses aluminum in places such as the hood, thus saving 17 pounds over a conventional stamped steel hood.

    To go into details, this particular vehicle, called Toughnology concept has a stripped-down appearance. The paint job resembles the look of raw, unpainted steel and is accented with steel molecule graphics. The black painted hood is the only visible metal exterior component that isn’t steel.

    There are also additional black and chrome exterior accents and Chevrolet Accessory 22-inch wheels coupled with off-road tires. The special content includes Chevrolet Accessories grille insert, tubular assist steps, soft, folding tonneau cover, washable carpet bedliner, fender flares and tinted headlamp lenses.

    Other upgrades in terms of performance feature enhanced performance exhaust system and performance brakes. Under the hood there is a performance air intake system on its 5.3L engine which generates 355 horsepower (261 kW) and 519 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque.

    The interior of the Silverado Toughnology is the same as this of the LTZ trim. It features heated, leather-appointed bucket seats, rear-seat entertainment system, the OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless phone-charging mat.

    Source: Chevrolet  

  • Volkswagen Golf Gets Alltrack Specification

    Volkswagen-Golf-Alltrack-THUMBVolkswagen Golf Alltrack is the little sibling of Passat Alltrack. When the company debuted the latter, it closed the gap between the on-road and off-road worlds. As expected, the Golf Alltrack will make its European world premiere at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris next week. Some of the technical and visual highlights of the Golf Alltrack include a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, wheel arch mouldings and protective flared side sills as well as new bumpers.

    This four-wheel drive Golf will feature an engine range comprising of one brand-new 1.8 litre TSI 180 hp (132 kW) petrol engine and three diesel engines: the 1.6-litre TDI with 110 hp (81 kW), plus two 2.0-litre TDI engines with 150 hp (110 kW) and 184 hp (135 kW). The highest output units will transfer their power to the all-wheel drive system via a standard six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG).

    The permanent all-wheel drive 4MOTION is equipped with the latest generation Haldex coupling. It activates even before slip occurs and prevents almost all losses in traction thanks to a proactive control. In addition to the Haldex coupling which serves as a longitudinal lock, the new Volkswagen model features four-wheel EDS system. It operates as an electronic differential lock that is integrated in the ESC electronic stability control system.

    At the front and rear axles, the Golf Alltrack is also equipped with XDS. It enhances steering response by braking the wheels on the inside of a bend during fast driving. The off-road driving credentials of the car is additionally strengthened by the 20 mm higher ground clearance, “Offroad” driving profile and 4MOTION four-wheel drive system.

    Next, Volkswagen is offering a 1.8-litre TSI direct-injection four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 180 hp from 4,500 rpm. It develops an impressive torque of 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) from a 1,350 rpm up to 4,500 rpm. This unit comes as a standard coupled with a six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG). The top speed is positioned at 135 mph, and the acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph is rated at 7.8 seconds. This contrasts to the economical fuel consumption figure of 41.5 mpg that equates to 158 g/km of CO2. 

    The entry-level engine to the Golf Alltrack range is the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp, which consumes just 60.1 mpg and emits only 124 g/km of CO2). The engine has a maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) available between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. This 1.6 TDI accelerates the Golf Alltrack to 62 mph in 12.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 116 mph.

    The second diesel engine in the range is the 2.0 TDI with 150 hp, which has a combined fuel consumption of just 57.6 mpg and CO2 of 127 g/km. It generates 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) available from a low 1,750 rpm up to 3,000 rpm. Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI has a top speed of 128 mph and accelerates from standstill to 62 mph in 8.9 seconds.

    At the top of the engine range sits the diesel 2.0 TDI unit with 184 hp.  Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI sets is the most powerful Golf ever in an Estate body. The maximum torque here is 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) available from 1,750 rpm up to 3,250 rpm. The engine also offers extremely sporty driving performance: 7.8 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 62 mph and 136 mph top speed. The Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI consumes just 55.4 mpg and emits only 134 g/km of CO2.

    Some of the exterior highlights of the model include black wheel arch mouldings, side sills painted in matt “Reflex Silver”, 17-inch “Valley” alloys which were designed specifically for the Volkswagen Alltrack models, door mirror caps painted in glossy “Reflex Silver”, an “Alltrack” badge on the wings, a chrome trim strip in matt color beneath the side windows and the “Silver” anodised roof rail.

    The front end of the new Golf Alltrack features a low-profile radiator grille crossbar in the upper front area that sports an aluminium look, chrome “Alltrack” badge, lower cooling air intake in the redesigned bumper, distinctive crossbar in “Reflex Silver” and underbody protection in “Reflex Silver” completes the lower section of the front end. At the back of the car we can see dark-red rear lights and redesigned bumper. 

    Inside, car’s interior styling includes leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shift lever, custom seat covers with the “Alltrack” badge on the backs of the front seats, accents in “Dark Magnesium” on the centre console and “Tracks” on the dashboard and interior door trim as well as ambient lights in the door trim. Other standard features included here are the automatic climate control (“Climatronic”), LED reading lights for the front and rear seats, lights in the front footwell areas, “Composition Touch” infotainment system, Driver Alert System and cruise control system.

    Available features include a chrome trim strip with “4MOTION” lettering on the centre console compartment lid, stainless steel door sill plates with “Alltrack” lettering and chrome accents for various switches and buttons.

    Volkswagen Golf Alltrack will go on sale in the summer of 2015.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Custom Edition Lingenfelter Reaper Chevrolet Silverado Goes on Sale

    Lingenfelter-Chevrolet-Silverado-Reaper-THUMB2014 Chevrolet Silverado pickup now gets a Lingenfelter Reaper skin! This performance off-road edition was co-developed by Lingenfelter Performance Engineering and Southern Comfort Automotive, and now boasts enhanced muscular styling, attractive street presence as well as great off-road performance. The so called Reaper is a combination of Lingenfelter’s legendary performance engine tuning with the suspension know-how of Southern Comfort Automotive’s expertise.

    The customized Chevy Silverado is finished in red exterior color but also features white, gray and black accents. There is a long list of standard features including a three-inch lift, long-travel off-road suspension, Fox Racing shocks, 20-inch exclusive Reaper wheels mounted on General Grabber LT tires and a Lingenfelter performance exhaust system.

    Furthermore, this aggressive style is additionally strengthened via custom hood fitment and grill assembly. Not to mention the high-clearance front bumper, wide-body fender flares, a wheel-to-wheel rock guard with removable side steps and high-profile exterior Reaper badging. The customizing specialists have also added integrated LED driving lights, side front fender marker lights and an integrated off-road flood light system.

    Inside, the interior is adorned with embroidered headrests, door panel accents, a gauge package and an auxiliary switch panel for flood lights and more accessory upgrades. As an option, both companies are offering tuned Magnuson TSV1900 Supercharged 5.3L or 6.2L engine as well as 17-inch beadlock off-road wheel and General tire package, bold Reaper graphics and a frozen matte paint finish.

    2014 Lingenfelter Chevy Silverado Reaper is currently available at US dealerships.

    Source: Lingenfelter Performance Engineering

     

  • Citroen to Show C1 URBAN RIDE Concept in Paris

    Citroen-C1-URBAN-RIDE-Concept-THUMBCitroen C1 URBAN RIDE Concept is set to make an official premiere at the Paris Motor Show just in a few days. In addition, for the French company this event will be all about harnessing creativity and technology. The brand is also reaffirming its identity by delivering a ‘feel good’ customer experience. So far this year, Citroen has launched four new models that express brand’s values: pure, optimistic design, global comfort and truly useful technology. They all will be on display at the show.

    For instance, the new Citroen C4 Cactus is a complete manifesto of company’s new positioning and a striking new alternative to the traditional C-segment compact hatchback. In addition, the Citroen C1 is practical, comfortable and the ultimate urban car. Its Airscape roof adds a further touch of driving pleasure.

    An exclusive Paris Motor Show debut will make the C1 URBAN RIDE. This concept vehicle is an example of the potential for personalization of this city car. It features go-anywhere looks, lively, fun personality and SUV-inspired styling features.

    Compared to the production C1, the concept has a ground clearance raised by 15mm as well as front and rear bumper fairings along with wheel arch trim elements. For a more dynamic look, its tracks have been increased by 10mm. C1 URBAN RIDE concept will be displayed in two versions: a five-door model and Airscape. The Airscape concept has the biggest roof opening in its class.

    Paris Motor Show will be open to the public from 4th of October.

    Source: Citroen 

  • 2015 Saleen 302 Ford Mustang to Pump Out 640 Horsepower

    2015-saleen-302-mustang-THUMB2015 Saleen 302 Ford Mustang was shown for the first time with a single picture in the beginning of July. The response of course was resounding. Saleen team is now stating that they are working hard to bring the next vehicle in the lineup to life. Since this is the firs new Mustang model for almost 10 years, the company is expecting an exciting time for the Mustang community when the S302 premieres.

    As the official unveiling approaches, the customizing specialists have released the features and specifications for the 2015 Saleen 302 Mustang (the full list is featured in the gallery below). Next to the features and specifications data, the company has also released another image of the car, showing a profile view. It definitely gives an enhanced perspective on what we are to expect.

    But the most important question here probably is how much horsepower will this enhanced Ford Mustang produce. The standard production V8 engine is rated at 435 horsepower (320 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb-ft).  Saleen expects to make better these factory numbers and add 15 hp and 10 Nm, making a total of 450 hp (331 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb-ft) in naturally aspirated form.

    With the advantage of a supercharger, the pony car will pump out the numbers to 640 hp (471 kW) and 765 Nm (565 lb-ft). Either of the engines will be coupled with a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

    This Ford S302 will be offered in a convertible or a coupe form, and will come in three trim levels – White Label, Yellow Label and Black Label. The first one features the naturally aspirated engine, while the other two trims benefit from the supercharged unit.

    The White and Yellow trim also add upgrades like a new exhaust system and limited-slip differential, as well as improved suspension, heat extractor hood and rear wing. On the other hand, the Black gets center induction hood, side skirts, a new rear fascia integrated with the exhaust system. It also added more suspension upgrades, illuminated sill places, leather and Alcantara seats.

    Source: Saleen 

  • Cadillac CT6 is Brand-New and will Debut in Late 2015

    cadillac-c6-teaser-THUMBCadillac CT6 is a brand new model which will be positioned at the top of its range. Cadillac’s new and high technology “prestige sedan” will express an approach emphasizing a dynamic driving experience and advanced technology. The car will be launched in the last part of 2015, expanding company’s range. This actually means that it won’t replace any current product. CT6 will be positioned above today’s CTS and XTS product lines and is expected to join the elite group of top-class large luxury cars.

    The vehicle is currently in development. It is an RWD-oriented sedan, which utilizes advanced, lightweight materials and new body construction techniques to enhance fuel economy, driving dynamics and safety.

    In fact, this Cadillac is expected to be the lightest and most agile car in the class of large luxury sedans. It was also revealed that the model will feature some technology advancements that we have seen in the dynamic ATS and CTS product lines. Precisely, CT6 will employ a mixed material which combines the best and most efficient components optimized for each area of this new car.

    The model carries a name which is derived from CTS. The name also indicates a coming shift to a simplified naming convention for future Cadillac models. This means that familiar lettering like “CT” would be used for car models, with the number indicating the relative size and position of the cars in the hierarchy of company’s models.

    Cadillac CT6 will be built in Detroit at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. Its production is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of next year.

    Source: Cadillac

  • Vilner Teases an Exceptional Project Dubbed BMW Stormtrooper

    Are you a fan of Star Wars movie series just like us? Well if the answer is positive than you will definitely greatly enjoy the latest project of the tuning specialists at Art Studio Vilner. And we are sure that this car will also appeal to those who aren’t familiar with the film saga. The customizing specialists have just sent us three exceptional photos of their BMW Stormtrooper. They have also disclosed that the official full reveal of the vehicle is soon to happen. Of course, the readers of automobilesreview.com will be privileged to be the first to see it.

    In fact, this is the second big project that the design atelier has embarked on. The Stormtrooper, as it has been dubbed by Vilner, is a cabrio version of the last year’s BMW Bullshark. After the transformation, the ex BMW M6 (Е64) Convertible looks like the stormtroopers – the white “soldiers” in the army of Dart Vader.

    Just like the BMW Bullshark, the machine was entirely restyled and refined by the designers and craftsmen of the Bulgarian studio. The result is that the team at Vilner has made some noticeable corrections to the donor car, which has also lot of differences with Bullshark.

    Source: Vilner 

  • DMC Reveals Lamborghini LP988 Edizione GT

    DMC-Lamborghini-LP988-Edizione-GT-THUMBIt is fast, it is luxurious, it is custom built and it is one-of-a-kind! We are speaking about the latest DMC Lamborghini, which has been recently showed to the automotive world. This particular project is called DMC Lamborghini LP988 Edizione GT and it has firstly received two special kits: the stage one – Molto Veloce, and the stage two – Spezial Version. What makes it so unique and of course – Limited Edition, is the addition of stage thee – the Edizione-GT through which it has become an unexpected monster.

    Edizione-GT or simply E-GT is a built according to the FIA regulations in mind. More importantly – this Lambo is completely street legal! While the major bite is taken by the body kit and the engine upgrade, the customizers at DMC have also added special two tone paint, set of forged alloy wheels as well as updated the interior.

    E-GT body kit comes with completely newly designed front and rear bumpers, a breath-taking engine-bonnet replacement with a motor cooling air-scoop and side skirts. The package also features a massive GT-Spoiler, which can be set by hand in three different angles for different aerodynamics.

    And you don’t even have to look closely to the pictures to see the carbon fiber! It is so much here! The package is completed with a full array of tunnels, flaps and diffusers, all located on the aforementioned parts.

    The LP988 also received engine modification via TWIN-TURBO procedure in combination with a reprogrammed ECU. In addition, a set of forged alloy wheels and a new kit of suspensions is what keep the beat on the road.

    At last, the package is rounded out through interior refinements. There has been extensively utilized Italian fine leather and carbon finer. Plenty of buttons were added as well as a redesigned steering wheel. There have been rumors going on that this total package cost the driver a the amount of  $288.888 USD.

    Source: DMC

     

  • 2015 Honda Civic Sport Unveiled Ahead of Paris Debut

    2015-Honda-Civic-Sport-THUMBJust ahead of the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, Honda has released the first details and images of the revised 2015 Honda Civic Sport. In general there are enhancements made across the entire Swindon built 2015 Civic model range, which will be revealed on 2nd of October when the show starts. First, both the Civic and Civic Tourer have new front exterior design. They look sportier due to the addition of new headlamps with integrated daytime running lights and a new sleek front bumper. The hatchback model also features LED rear combination lamps as well as new rear bumper, side skirts and rear spoiler finished in black.

    Inside, the 2015 models also receive a specification upgrade. There are used new seatfabrics and stitching on the headrests, new door trims with chrome door handles and a control panel, which is finished in a metallic black. The interior is cosy and spacious, and still keeps its class-leading interior space. In fact, Civic’s 477-litre and Civic Tourer’s 624-litre boot capacity remain the best in their respective segments.

    To the range will be also introduced the Honda Connect in-car audio and information system. It delivers convenience and connectivity for the occupants whilst on the road. The system includes key features such as AM/FM, DAB and Internet Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, internet browsing, satellite navigation and rear-view parking camera. Furthermore, this system runs Android 4.0.4 and features the familiar pinch, swipe and tap functionality of a smartphone on a seven inch display screen.

    The star of the show will be the Civic Sport derivative, which has been based on the Civic hatchback. The car is driven by the 1.6-litre, 120 hp (88 kW) diesel engine or the 1.8-litre, 142 hp (104 kW) petrol unit.

    It stands out from the crowd thanks to its colour-coded rear spoiler and 17-inch alloy wheels that are unique to the Sport derivative. More importantly, Honda disclosed that the Civic Sport echoes the striking design of the forthcoming Type R with a new front bumper featuring a lower grille mesh and a black roof lining for the cabin.

    Every single model in the updated Civic range will benefit from the addition of Honda’s City- Brake Active (CTBA) system as standard. CTBA was specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents. It operates at speeds below 30 km/h and utilizes radar technology to scan the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if a risk of collision is detected.

    Source: Honda

     

  • 2015 Volkswagen Beetle Gets new Retro Classic Trim

    2015-Volkswagen-Beetle-Classic-THUMB2015 Volkswagen Beetle Classic is a limited edition model which is set to appear only at the North American market scene. Volkswagen of America has also announced that the iconic model in a new trim is ready to go on sale this week. This new addition to the Beetle range enhances its value story by the addition of a host of more equipment.

    Beetle Classic runs on 17-inch “Heritage” aluminum-alloy wheels, which lend it old-school visual appearance. Thanks to them the car looks more closely to the original bug from the mid 50s. In addition, this particular model adds rear spoiler and will be offered in three exterior paint finishes: Pure White, Black Uni, and Reflex Silver.

    The Classic trim has an understated retro look inside: there we see leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake lever, multifunction steering wheel, two-tone brown “Sioux” leatherette and checked cloth seating surfaces and comfort front seats with driver’s side lumbar support. The historic mini model also gets some special technical characteristics in term of equipment such as Sirius XM Satellite Radio, an RNS 315 navigation system and a six-speed automatic transmission.

    This coupe is powered by the 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI four-cylinder engine. It produces 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 240 Nm (177 pound-feet) of torque. The Beetle 1.8T Coupe has an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 33 mpg with the six-speed automatic transmission.

    Volkswagen will also offer a Beetle Classic Convertible, which will go on sale early in 2015. It will have the same equipment as the coupe and will be driven by the same powertrain. The EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating here is at 32 mpg. 2015 Beetle Classic Coupe has a starting price of $20,195 USD, while the Convertible – $25,995 USD.

    Source: Volkswagen