Author: Lidia Todorova

Infiniti Q80 Inspiration is Feasting the Senses

Another picture teaser of the Infiniti Q80 Inspiration was just revealed. The car, which is set to debut at the Paris Auto Show, is Infiniti‘s vision of supreme luxurious driving. It is a “top-of-the-line, four-seat fastback” with driver-centric powertrain and onboard technologies. The car will be introduced exactly at 15:30 local time on October 2 in Hall 5 of the Parc des Expositions de Versailles in Paris. There, the company will premiere not only the progressive Q80 Inspiration but also will offer a glimpse of its high-performance and efficient hybrid-electric powertrain as well as additional technologies.

The profile of the Q80 Inspiration extends to 5052 millimeters (198.9 inches) with a long wheelbase of 3103 mm (122.2 in). It strikes width is of 2027 mm (79.8 in) while the height is of 1350 mm (53.1 in). The vehicle runs on custom 22-inch five-dual-spoke lightweight alloys.

This model is created with the aim of capturing the unforgettable feeling when one experiences something important, beautiful, magnetic for the first time. If you look closely to the released photo you will see that the there are no side-door mirrors to break up the aesthetics of the unmistakable profile of the car.

The lightweight acoustic glass highlights the full roof length of the teardrop passenger greenhouse. Moreover, the doors open portal style, which allows the cabin to be fully on display while driver and passengers step effortlessly in and out.

Inside, the cabin of the model is capable of bringing together the four occupants (“1 + 1 + 1 + 1” seating.) in a highly stylized and personalized ambiance. Infiniti reveals that only high quality materials were used for the interior. These include carbon fiber, aluminum and leather.

Next, the car is equipped with advanced adaptive suspension, rides on light and rigid chassis and delivers optimum sound deadening. In other words, Infiniti Q80 Inspiration four-door fastback is expected to redefined premium fastback segment.

Source: Infiniti

September 24, 2014
Hotel Orders Fleet of 30 Rolls Royce Phantom Louis XIII Special Editions

2015 Rolls Royce Phantom Louis XIII Special Edition will be produced in only thirty examples and will never see any other country than the Chinese. The exclusive luxury fleet has been purchased by the entrepreneur Stephen Hung. He placed an order for 30 Bespoke Extended Wheelbase Phantoms for his Louis XIII hotel in Macau, making this world’s single largest order of Rolls-Royces ever. Two of the fleet will be the most expensive Rolls-Royce Phantoms ever commissioned.

Each of these thirty Phantom Louis XIII Edition models will be equipped with bespoke elements, which will adorn both the exterior and interior. The exterior color finish of the models is the same as those of hotel – red. While the interior includes bespoke clocks (picture below), created specifically by Graff Luxury Watches.

Other details around the Phantom Louis XIII Special Edition models are soon to be announced, but just look at the pictures … At the rear of the car there are visible embroidered headrests as well as starlight headliners, and special “hidden” compartments.

There is also a picture which shows the all 30 ignition keys for all 30 models. If you look carefully, you will notice that 28 of the keys for the Phantonm Louis XIII Special Editions come in silver polish, while the other two, positioned in the middle – in gold. Of course, those are the two ignition keys of the two most expensive Phantoms ever commissioned. As a matter of fact, those two will additionally feature external and internal gold-plated accents.

Rolls-Royce has also helped to design the parking and driveways to house the fleet at Louis XIII. In addition, it will train hotel’s chauffeurs from Macau in the appropriate driving and handling of the vehicles. This Phantom fleet will transport guests of Louis XIII, located on the Cotai Strip in Macau, when it is opened in the first half of 2016.

Source: Rolls-Royce

September 23, 2014
Honda Previews 2015 CR-V

2015 Honda CR-V is to receive new, more aggressive and bolder appearance through its significant enhancements. The SUV will go on sale on 1st of October, while the complete information about it will be available on 30th of September. The photo you see above is the official image which Honda has just released prior the full reveal.

Judging by it we see some new LEDs as well as sleeker, redesigned fog lamps with chrome surrounds on the front bumper. Other changes on the model feature mirrors with integrated turning signals and brand new alloy wheels.

Moreover, the updated small SUV also include triple chrome horizontal bars. This brings the CR-V’s front fascia in line with Honda’s latest models. The grille now comprises of a large black bar, while the aforementioned LED driving lights, are bridged by the chrome edges of the grille. It is visible that there has been some work done regarding the lower bumper, which now includes matte dark gray black cladding surrounding the lower section.

We also hope to see that there will be some changes made to the rear as well as to the interior. Honda hasn’t released any specification or technical data. Therefore, if there isn’t any changes to the engine range from the last year, this means that the future 2015 CR-V will be driven by 2.4L powerplant, producing 185 hp (136 kW) and 220 Nm (163 lb-ft). The power will be send to the wheels via five-speed automatic.

Source: Honda

September 23, 2014
Hyundai Partners with Bisimoto for 708 HP Flex-Fuel Sonata
Hyundai and Bisimoto Engineering are joining forces for the third year in a row, to create a 708 horsepower Sonata for this years SEMA show in Las Vegas. Last year, the Bisimoto’s team, which specializes in extracting huge output from Hyundai’s engines, has created the 1000 horsepower Bisimoto Genesis Coupe for the same show.

This time, the power gurus will be working on Hyundai’s 2.4-liter “Theta-II” 4-cylinder engine. They will be using a combination of strengthened internal components such as forged pistons, connecting rods, a high-revving valve train and camshafts and high-boost turbocharger. The goal is to extract exactly 708 horsepower (520 kW) from the unit. The power will be sent to the road via six-speed manual transmission.

The team at Bisimoto conducted hundreds of hours of testing, failure analysis and prototyping. The result is 18 new products which will be engineered and produced in house to deliver the 708 horsepower. Furthermore, the Sonata will feature a special custom laminated body wrap and graphics, as well as extensive overhaul under the hood.

Rounding out the exterior credentials of the car are the Bisimoto front splitter and aero package, Fifteen52 18-inch aluminum wheels and the Burns stainless exhaust system. Inside, the interior has been given a sporty feel with the addition of racing harnesses, AEM wideband gauges and EK Autoworx interior paint.

2015 Bisimoto Engineering Sonata will offer space for four and will be revealed at Hyundai’s SEMA press conference on 4th of November.

2.4-LITER THETA II ENGINE MODIFICATIONS
- Bisimoto-tuned 2.4L Theta-II engine
- Bisimoto intake gasket
- Web Level 2.4 camshafts
- Turbonetics TNX 82/64 turbocharger
- Turbonetics blow-off valve
- Turbonetics wastegate
- Deatschwerks 2200cc Injectors
- R&R steel connecting rods
- Arias forged pistons
- AEM Infinity 6 ECU, and smart coils
- Spearco intercooler
- Golden Eagle sleeved block, and intake manifold
- Griffin Radiator
- Supertech valvetrain
- Vibrant Vanjen clamps and stainless hardware
- Magnafuel 750 fuel pump
- ARP head studs
- Portflow custom headwork
- VP E85R Fuel
- Kinsler fuel filters
- PurOl Elite Synthetic Oils
- NGK Iridium spark plugs
- CHASSIS/SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS
- Bisimoto roll cage
- Progress coil-over suspension and sway bar
- Fifteen52 18×8 Tarmac aluminum wheels
- ARP wheel studs
- Bisimoto-spec Action Ironman Clutch
EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS
- Extreme Autowerks custom laminated body wrap
- Type 2 graphics
- Bisimoto splitter
- Wasp Composites Aero package
- Denmatic design scheme
- Burns Stainless muffler and hardware
INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS
- Bisimoto reservoir socks
- Racepack IQ3 dash
- AEM wideband gauges
- Odyssey ER-25MJ dry cell battery
- Electronics Management mil-spec harness
- G&J braided lines
- EK Auto Worx interior paint
Source: Hyundai
September 23, 2014
Toyota Shows C-HR Hybrid Crossover Ahead of Paris Premiere

The first teaser image of the Toyota’s new C-HR Concept was unveiled in the beginning of the week. Now the company is releasing two pictures of the future vehicle revealing its front and back and leaving only the technical details and specifications in secret. The car will debut at the Paris motor show that starts on 2^nd of October. It is a vision for a hybrid-powered compact crossover that displays Toyota’s new design language and also gives clue of what kind of vehicle the Japanese brand would like to bring to market.

C-HR Concept has undoubtedly an expressive design to show. The most striking elements of the new design approach is the diamond styling theme. Beneath the flowing cabin profile, the lower bodywork has been sculpted to create faceted surfaces, which resembles a gemstone. At the fronts are visible Toyota’s current design cues as well as – the introduction of themes which signal a future direction for Toyota vehicles.

Looked at its sides, vehicle’s facetted treatment of the lower body, the muscular wheel arches and angular rear shoulders are juxtaposed with an exceptionally sleek cabin profile. At last, at the back we see an aero-inspired floating rear lamp clusters which adds emphasis to C-HR’s broad-shouldered look.

The compact crossover will go into production in 2017 in a two- and four-wheel-drive version as well as featuring a hybrid powertrain, petrol and diesel engines. The unveiling of the C-HR Concept will happen at Toyota’s stand at the Paris motor show on 2^nd of October.

Source: Toyota

September 23, 2014

Mitsubishi Reveals Outlander PHEV Concept-S Ahead of Premiere in Paris

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S that was teased twenty days ago now has been showed inside and out with two pictures. The car is set to make its official world premiere at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. At the even, Mitsubishi will be also displaying a total of 11 vehicles featuring the Outlander PHEV rally car which competed in the FIA Asia Cross Country Rally 2014, European specification production models, the i-MiEV and other electric powered vehicles.

Outlander PHEV Concept-S is a concept model based on the Outlander PHEV 4WD SUV plug-in hybrid vehicle. It represents a special design package for the production version and its exterior and interior are created under the theme “Sporty and Sophisticated”.

The overall design of the concept model, expresses driving pleasure by delivering powerful and agile performance. In addition, it also combines it with quiet, advanced and high quality driving performance provided by its Twin Motor 4WD and Plug-in Hybrid EV System.

Furthermore, the front end design shields the Three-Diamond mark through bold chromed accent mouldings on either side. This further strengthens the three dimensional effect and additionally suggests motion. Wraparound headlamps contribute to a sense of dynamism sweeping up and outwards.

The same design theme continues at the rear, where the creative team has utilized similar symbolic chrome accents. For instance, such are the elongated combination lamps that run from tailgate to wings. This also expresses dynamic and innovative styling as if bracing the vehicle for better safety. From the outside, car’s body has been decided in brilliant “Platinum White” paint glass flake finish.

Mitsubishi-Outlander-PHEV-Concept-S-651-2

Inside, the design of this concept is the complete opposite (in terms of color) to the sparkling exterior. The theme here is “Black & Burgundy”. In particular, Concept-S’ interior design makes use of painstakingly executed detailing such as the black wood grain trim with silver accent, the centre console designed inspired by Japanese traditional black lacquered boxes and the soft fine leather, hand-stitched by craftsmen selected for the seat upholstery.

Next, the seat upholstery forms a three-dimensional surface with horizontally-ribbed cushioning. In addition, the silver accents of the trimming lines, curving around the seat, further enhance the perceived quality of the interior.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Concept-S Main Specifications:

Overall length (mm)	4,760
Overall Width (mm)	1,840
Overall height (mm)	1,700
Wheelbase (mm)	2,670
Occupants	5
Powertrain	Plug-in Hybrid EV System (2 permanent magnet synchronous motors, Lithimun-ion battery (12kWh), 2.0-liter 4-cyl. DOHC MIVEC gasoline engine)
Drivetrain	Twin Motor 4WD

Mitsubishi Motors Line-up at 2014 Paris Motor Show:

Model	No. on display		Remarks
Model	Press day	Public day	Remarks
Outlander PHEV Concept-S	1	1	Concept car
MITSUBISHI Concept XR-PHEV	–	1	Concept car
Outlander PHEV	2		Production model
Outlander PHEV	1	1	Rally car. Successful finisher in FIA Asia Cross Country Rally 2014
i-MiEV	1	1
Outlander	–	1
ASX	–	1	RVR or Outlander Sport in some countries
Mirage	–	1
Shogun	–	1
L200	–	1
Total	5	11

Source: Mitsubishi

September 23, 2014

2015 Dacia Duster Gets Styling Upgrades

The latest edition of the Dacia Duster has been enhanced and now benefits from a package of styling and trim upgrades. The range of 2015 Duster vehicles include two- and four-wheel-drive models that are based on three trim levels and two engines. The entry-level is called Access and it is driven by the 105 hp 1.6-litre 16-valve petrol engine. The mid-range trim is dubbed as Ambiance while the top-grade – Lauréate. Both they have a 107 hp (109 hp on 4×4 versions) 1.5-litre dCi 110 turbodiesel power unit.

The new Dacia model gets a stylish chrome front grille made up of two layers of four small intakes surrounding brand’s logo. There are also ‘Duster’ branded roof bars, which are chromed on Lauréate models. At the back of the vehicle, a black tailgate trim with ‘Duster’ branding sits above the number plate. In addition, there are five new metallic colours offered for the model: Mercury, Khaki, Pearl Black, Slate Grey and Cinnamon.

The Lauréate trims run on new Tyrol 16-inch alloy wheels and also features body-coloured door handles and dark metal door mirror casings. There is new upholstery and seats for every model. Access versions are finished in Hassium cloth, Ambiance in Osmium cloth and Lauréate in Rhodium cloth with ‘Duster’ lettering.In contrast with the top of the range trim, the highlights on Access model are 16-inch Eiger steel wheels, remote locking, a Thatcham-approved engine immobiliser, electric front windows, anti-lock brakes with Emergency Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control, a Tyre Pressure Monitor, four airbags, an ECO driving mode and gearshift indicator and a four-speed heating and ventilation system.

Duster Access features standard body-coloured bumpers, black door handles and Duster-branded roof bars and bumpers. Glacier White is the sole colour, while the 4×4 version has a centre differential lock with 2WD, Auto and Lock modes. The next Ambiance version gets Matterhorn 16-inch steel wheels, satin chrome door handles, a chrome gearlever insert and instrument surrounds, a radio/CD player with AUX and USB sockets and Bluetooth, front foglights, a height-adjustable driver’s seat and a 60:40 split rear seat.

Lauréate modelss add manual air conditioning, electric mirrors and rear windows, cruise control with a speed limiter, a seven-function trip computer, a glovebox light, a passenger vanity mirror and body coloured door handles, satin chrome Duster-branded roof bars, scuff plates and side sills. There are also standard piano black interior door handles, door and steering wheel inserts and centre console surround, a leather-covered steering wheel and map pockets in the front seat backs.

2015 Dacia Duster Technical Details

Model	Power (hp @ rpm)	Torque (Nm @ rpm)		0-62mph (sec)	Top speed (mph)
Access 1.6 16V 105 4×2	105 @ 5750	148 @ 3750		11.5	104
Access 1.6 16V 105 4×4	105 @ 5750	148 @ 3750		12.8	99
Ambiance dCi 110 4×2	107 @ 4000	240 @ 1750		11.8	106
Ambiance dCi 110 4×4	109 @ 4000	240 @ 1750		12.5	104
Lauréate dCi 110 4×2	107 @ 4000	240 @ 1750		11.8	106
Lauréate dCi 110 4×4	109 @ 4000	240 @ 1750		12.5	104
Model	MPG	CO2 (g/km)	BIK (band %)	VED (band)	Insurance group
Access 1.6 16V 105 4×2	39.8	165	26%	G	6E
Access 1.6 16V 105 4×4	35.3	185	30%	I	5E
Ambiance dCi 110 4×2	56.5	130	22%	D	10A
Ambiance dCi 110 4×4	53.3	135	23%	E	10A
Lauréate dCi 110 4×2	56.5	130	22%	D	11A
Lauréate dCi 110 4×4	53.3	135	23%	E	10A

Source: Dacia

September 19, 2014

Range Rover Evoque SW1 is Inspired by Britain

2014 Range Rover Evoque SW1 is a special edition, which celebrates the best of British. The model is the first in a series of “Inspired by Britain” special edition vehicles from Jaguar, providing additional personalization opportunities for Evoque customers worldwide. The design of the British flag and its combination of red, white and blue delivers the perfect theme for the Evoque. The SW1 Evoque model will be displayed at the Paris Motor Show and will be available for customers to order from mid-October.

The vehicle is based on the most recent Dynamic body style, and it will be produced in the following colors: Firenze Red, Fuji White, Loire Blue, Santorini Black and Corris Grey with a contrast Fuji white roof and gloss 20″ alloy wheels in the same color. UK’s Union Flag graphics can be seen on the rear spoiler and the white door mirror housings. White tick decals also adorn the bodywork, and they come in red in the case of Fuji White paint option.

Inside, the car is decided in Taurus Ebony leather upholstery, door inserts, arm rests and facia trim picked out with contrast Cirrus stitching. Anodised red finish is applied to the rotary shift controller and shift paddles for models fitted with the nine-speed automatic transmission, while versions with the manual transmission receive a unique themed gear lever insert. The Union Flag appears on the headrests, carpet mats, sill plates and vehicle key.

Next, the SW1 Special Edition Evoque Monochrome adds a twist by following the style treatment of the Evoque Union. Its graphics and details are presented in a single colour. This particular trim is based on the Pure body style, but it will be available with a choice of Santorini Black, Fuji White and Corris Grey paint finishes, with a contrast black roof on the second two colours. Again, Fuji gloss white 20″ alloy wheels and the tick decals are featured.

Inside, its interior includes Ebony upholstery, door trim and facia insert. The anodised red rotary control and shift paddles make beautiful contrasting impression inside. Both special edition models feature unique white Range Rover lettering on the bonnet.

The Evoque model is now available with an advanced integrated laser Head-Up Display (HUD). This system features laser holographic techniques, resulting in superior colour saturation, brightness and contrast compared to rival systems, and all in a small, lightweight package. HUD allows drivers to maintain a clear view of the road, while simultaneously receiving key driving information such as road speed, gear position, turn-by-turn navigation, traffic sign recognition, the cruise control set speed and the Automatic Cruise Control (ACC) status, including warnings.

Source: Land Rover

September 19, 2014
MG3 Personalisation Design concept Unveiled at Superbrands London

MG3 Personalisation Design Concept was unveiled at Superbrands London as part of London Design Week. The car was created by MG Designer Louise Thorburn, who is a recent graduate with an honours degree in Textile Design. In fact, she is the latest addition to the MG Design team after completing two internships, one at MG and one at iconic shoe designer, Jimmy Choo, before returning to MG as Colour and Materials designer.

The latest collection of MG3 personalisation graphics is dubbed Autumn Additions Collection. It will join the existing range of more than a million options that are now available in the MG3 range. Another interesting fact is that MG3 personalisation options have already achieved great success. Since the supermini has been launched last year, over 40 per cent of orders have included at least one specified design addition.

Three new designs have been launched yesterday and they have been added to the online configurator of the company. The MG3 has been launched in September last year, benefiting from great interior and boot space, superb leading chassis and driving dynamics and high levels of equipment on all specifications as standard.

At Superbrands this year there are over 280 companies from 29 countries. They will be grouped into four ‘trends’: Raw, featuring exposed textures and revealed processes; Bold and Beautiful, exuding big colours and arresting visuals, Frame, with geometric and arrestingly simple design; and Refraction – optical effects and Pop Art stylings.

The eight edition of the Superbrands event is currently running till 21^st of September in central London. There the visitors will be able to see the very best in global contemporary design, witness more than 300 events and exhibitions.

Source: MG

September 19, 2014
Slayer- and Riley Hawk-Inspired Scions Teased Ahead of SEMA Reveal

Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association Show is approaching and some automobile companies have already released some visuals to teas the public. We are speaking here about Scion, which has released two sketches giving a sneak peek at a Riley Hawk- and Slayer-Inspired vehicles. Obviously the new customized SEMA-bound vehicles will be entirely inspired by metal, music and some serious skateboarding. At the event, Scion will debut the Scion x Slayer Mobile Amp tC for heavy metal band Slayer and the Scion x Riley Hawk Skate Tour xB for pro skateboarder Riley Hawk.

The metal band Slayer has a look, sound and approach all its own. This style is carried into the tC sports coupe’s exterior look and band-inspired details. Inside, the vehicle has been transformed into a multimedia machine with amps, towers of speakers, a custom mixer and a 32-inch monitor for media playback. The build process is lead by Mike Vu of MV DESIGNZ.

The other car pays tribute to Hawk’s skateboarding career. His xB ride features high-end sound system, space for skateboards and classic orange and yellow striped paint job. Details like bubble windows, interior wood grain paneling, an 8-track player and requisite shag carpet make it a rolling, retro hangout spot. Scott Kanemura of KMA Productions is leading the built of this project.

At the show, there are also three other vehicles, which will be joining the aforementioned duo. The trio will consist of FR-S sport coupes designed by partners as part of the 10th annual Scion Tuner Challenge. For those willing to see the Slayer tC and Skate Tour xB, there will be opportunities to do this at Scion events later in this year.

Source: Scion

September 19, 2014
Volkswagen GRC Beetle Debuts at Global Rallycross Series

Andretti Rallycross Volkswagen Global Rallycross Beetle, or simply the GRC Beetle is currently under preparation for the seventh and eighth rounds of the 2014 Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship. The team at Andretti Rallycross will be racing at the Port of Los Angeles this weekend. In addition, it will also debut the exciting Global Rallycross Beetle that will also take part in tea’s 2015 Championship chase. This two-race event is a new challenge, being the only double header weekend in the 2014 season.

The driver under the number No. 77 7UP Volkswagen will be Scott Speed. He is hoping of taking advantage of twice the number of championship points being on offer. Currently, after six rounds, he is third in points behind Nelson Piquet Jr. and Ken Block.

In the driver championship Tanner Foust is in a close battle with Sverre Isachsen and Bucky Lasek for seventh position. He will be behind the wheel of the No. 34 Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen, which is now pushing for podium finishes in the last four races of the season and will also debut team’s new car.

His Beetle is driven by Volkswagen‘s 1.6-liter four-cylinder TSI turbocharged and intercooled engine, which generates 544 horsepower (440 kW) and makes the Volkswagen very competitive. The Rockstar Energy Drink Beetle boasts unique appearance and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

Source: Volkswagen

September 19, 2014
Ford Adds Surveillance Mode Technology to Police Interceptor Vehicles

Ford is introducing to its 2014 Police Interceptor utility vehicles the surveillance mode technology. The award-winning mode was created with the goal to warn law enforcement officers of unexpected approaches from behind the vehicle. This exclusive feature will help protect law enforcement officers and military personnel around the globe. For this technology Ford has worked closely with InterMotive – a company based in Auburn, California, known for providing innovative vehicle control systems for various applications, including law enforcement.

To go further into details, the surveillance mode technology utilizes the existing rearview camera and radar to detect a person approaching the vehicle from behind. Then, it automatically sounds a chime, rolls up the driver’s side window, lock all doors and flashes exterior lighting. The system can be also activated by the officer. In these cases it provides added situational awareness and a first line of defense from potential assailants.

This technology is perfect for use, while officers write reports, monitor their in-car computer or radar and perform other tasks sitting in their vehicles. They will undoubtedly feel secure, because surveillance mode gives them an extra set of eyes to help protect against potential assailants.

Another interesting fact around this technology is that it has earned the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executive’s Award. The award was presented at NOBLE’s 38th Annual Conference and Exhibition.

Source: Ford

September 18, 2014