Lidia Todorova – Page 143 – Automobiles Review

2015 Toyota Camry is Getting Better

2015 Toyota Camry is undoubtedly one of the best-selling cars in North America. Now the model is ready to go on sale in late September, featuring some innovations. Toyota says that it has remade the 2015 Camry and Camry Hybrid with a bold new exterior design, improved dynamic performance, a premium interior and adding more innovative safety technologies. Camry will be offered in four trim levels: LE, SE, XSE and the top of the range – XLE. Entirely new addition to the line-up is the XSE, which is the sportiest Camry yet. All models will be powered by the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The unit generates 178 horsepower (130 kW) and 230 Nm (170 lb.-ft.) of peak torque. It is coupled with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers EPA-estimated 25 MPG city/ 35 MPG highway/ 28 MPG combined fuel economy. XSE and XLE trims will also have the option to be powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine. It will be mated to a six-speed automatic and will generate 268 horsepower (197 kW).

Furthermore, the LE and SE will also include wide range of standard equipment such as 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, shift lever boot with contrast stitching, satin chrome interior accents, passenger window auto up-down, chrome front upper grille and rear trunk garnish and heated outside mirrors. On the SE, the customers will also find a 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display and direct tire pressure monitor system.

Camry XSE and XLE add more standard features over the LE and SE. These include leather-trimmed seating with multi-stage heated front seats and four-way power passenger seat on the XLE or leather-trimmed seating with Ultrasuede inserts and multi-stage heated front seats and 4-way power passenger seat on the XSE. More standard features include Entune Audio Plus multimedia system, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels with a super chrome finish on the XLE and 18-inch alloy wheels with machined face and black paint for the XSE.

These versions equipped with the V6 engine will add also LED high and low headlights, Smart Key entry, Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite including a 7-inch High-Resolution Touch-Screen Display, power tilt/slide moonroof and Qi wireless charging capability.

Next, the 2015 Camry Hybrid will be offered in three grades: LE, SE and XLE. The LE adds as no cost option 8-way power driver’s seat including power lumbar and the 4.2-inch TFT multi information display. The SE trim level adds Sport fabric SofTex-trimmed front seats with seatback pockets, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel with Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio controls and silver interior trim.

The top of the range, the XLE adds standard leather-trimmed seating with multi-stage heated front seats and 4-way power passenger seat, LED daytime running lights, direct tire pressure monitor system and 17-inch alloy wheels with super chrome finish.

In terms of safety, all 2015 Camry models come equipped with 10 airbags, STAR Safety System, including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

The advanced safety features here comprise of Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Auto High Beam, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

2015 Toyota Camry Pricing:

Model#	Grade	Engine	Transmission	2015 MSRP
2532	Camry LE	2.5 L 4-cyl.	6AT	$22,970
2546	Camry SE	2.5L 4-cyl.	6AT	$23,840
2540	Camry XLE	2.5L 4-cyl.	6AT	$26,150
2548	Camry XSE	2.5L 4-cyl.	6AT	$26,150
2550	Camry XSE	3.5L V6	6AT	$31,370
2554	Camry XLE	3.5L V6	6AT	$31,370
2559	Camry Hybrid LE	2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid	E-CVT	$26,790
2561	Camry Hybrid SE	2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid	E-CVT	$27,995
2560	Camry Hybrid XLE	2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid	E-CVT	$29,980

Source: Toyota

September 3, 2014

Land Rover Discovery Sport Revealed

Land Rover Discovery Sport has finally been revealed. The versatile and capable premium compact SUV is the first member of the new Discovery family and it comes with 5+2, however being no larger than existing Discovery. The new design of the vehicle shows what its future family members will look like. Some of its core characteristics are the optimized volume, proportions and stance, dynamic profile and the ultimate use of interior space.

Discovery Sport was revealed in a “digital” event at the Spaceport America in New Mexico, USA. There Land Rover also launched the Land Rover Galactic Discovery competition. The winner is set to take three of their friends on a trip to space with Land Rover’s global partner, Virgin Galactic.

The interior of the new model depicts the spirit of adventure. It features high-quality materials and a strong vertical centre console graphic. There are versatile storage solutions inside as well as up to four 12V power points and six USB charging sockets.

The most exciting feature is the 5+2 seating configuration. Thanks to a host of innovations, the designers were able to include this feature. The new multi-link rear axle not only provides engaging driving dynamics but it also provides ample and flexible cabin space behind the second row.

The innovative rear axle is coupled with supple long-travel suspension. This ensures comfort and refined driving experience, while retaining the all-terrain capability. Furthermore, here safety has been a key priority. Therefore the engineers have included pedestrian airbag, autonomous emergency braking, and bodyshell featuring both ultra-high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium. Other advanced equipment features include 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and standard tilt-and-slide row-two seating.

From launch Land Rover Discovery Sport will be powered by the 2.2 litre SD4 turbodiesel engine, which generates 190 hp (140 kW). The unit features stop-start technology, high-pressure direct injection, low-friction internal components and smart regenerative charging, and it can be mated to either of 9-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. Next year Land Rover will also launch two wheel drive eD4 turbodiesel engine.

Source: Land Rover

September 3, 2014

Renault Shows Captur Helly Hansen Limited-Edition

Renault Captur Helly Hansen limited-edition is a special model which is a result of the collaboration between the French automaker and the Norwegian outdoor sport and leisure clothing brand Helly Hansen. The car is improved via Extended Grip system for optimal traction control and is based on the model’s Intens equipment level. It comes complete with combined imitation leather/fabric upholstery and high-tech features such as the R-Link touchscreen tablet and a rear view camera.

Furthermore, other exclusive features in this edition include Flamme Red paint finish, Platine Grey front and rear skid plates and 17-inch black diamond-effect alloy wheels. There is a distinctive HH badging on the wings, which indicates the association with Helly Hansen.

Captur Helly Hansen is available in three two-tone body colours: Flamme Red with black or ivory roof, Cassiopée Grey with black roof and Ivory with black roof. Inside, the vehicle features red dashboard trim strips, a ‘carbon fibre’ motif for the steering wheel insert, chrome door sill guards and front carpet mats.

In addition, the standard with the Extended Grip traction optimization system is designed to optimize grip in difficult conditions, such as snow, mud and sand. There is a rotary control on the centre console, which allows the driver to select the ideal mode for the conditions: ‘Road’, ‘Loose Ground’ and ‘Expert’.

As mentioned, this limited edition Renault is based on the Intens equipment level, which includes the following features: Techno Pack with rear parking sensors, rear view camera and R-Link multimedia system, Extended Grip, special metallic paint finish, front and rear skid plates, Interior Colour Pack, combined imitation leather/fabric upholstery, carpet maps, badging and door sills.

Renault Captur Helly Hansen has a starting price of €20,700.

ENGINE	PRICE
Energy TCe Eco2	€ 20.700
TCe 120 EDC Eco2	€ 22.800
Energy dCi 90 Eco2	€ 22.900
dCi 90 EDC Eco2	€ 24.300

Source: Renault

September 2, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Introduces the Mobile Home Zetros

Mercedes-Benz Zetros is not the typical vehicle one might see rolling on the streets. It definitely has the rough military exterior but actually hides a gentle soul inside, because it is a high-end mobile home. The Zetros stands for excellent traction and ruggedness, maximum stability and technical brilliance as well as customized luxury. These components create a super-home on wheels, which will make its debut at the Caravan Show in Düsseldorf.

This Mercedes-Benz has extreme off-road characteristics and at the same time adds the load-carrying capacity of a heavy-duty truck. It features permanent all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, impressive 16.00 R 20 off-road tyres, three differential locks and a two-stage transfer case.

The Zetros is powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine with 7.2 l of displacement. It produces 326 hp (240 kW), includes BlueTec technology and is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Furthermore, the cab and body of the mobile home are connected by a passage. The cab is delivered by Hartmann Spezialkarosserien. The body has a length of 5.6 m and a width of 2.4 m, and is painted in silver. The walls, roof and floor are made of one-piece, galvanised and plastic-coated panels. The maximum wall thickness is 100 mm.

Inside is the living area of the car. The interior has been made by Hünerkopf and it seems extremely comfortable. There is L-shaped seating arrangement with kitchenette, bathroom with washroom and toilet plus a separate shower cubicle. A roomy double bed rounds off the accommodation at the rear.

The high-grade furnishings are trimmed with a real-wood veneer in bird’s-eye maple. Both the floor and the kitchen worktop are finished in lightweight natural stone. The large sofa is wrapped in breathable genuine leather.

If one considers buying this mobile home, then they must be assured that they will stay connected. The vehicle features high-grade entertainment system with automatic satellite dish and internet connection. Moreover, the living and sleeping areas are equipped with an LED screen, while the acoustic experience is delivered by a Bose sound system.

The Zetros also includes two tanks. One holds 300 l of fresh water while the other – 600 l of diesel. There is also included a combination of lithium-ion batteries and a solar energy system as well as a power generator. Other on-board equipment includes two independently operated, diesel-powered hot-water heaters and an air conditioner.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 2, 2014

New Atalanta Motor Car to Debut at Concours of Elegance

Atalanta Motors was established in December 1936 and the company was based in Staines Middlesex. The first car of Atalanta was introduced in the spring of the next year and was the only pre-war British car that included innovative design features such as fully independent coil spring suspension, adjustable damping, full hydraulic 16“ brakes and more. All Atalanta models benefited from a lightweight construction that delivered excellent performance and revolutionary road holding. The cars gave great traction and high levels of grip. What made the company so popular was the winning of the 1939 Welsh Rally team prize.

Available in a variety of body styles, only 21 original cars were produced before the unfortunate outbreak of war in 1939. Now, for the first time since 1939, a new Atalanta motor car will be officially launched. The vehicle will make its premiere at the third International Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace this weekend.

The new car will stay true to its predecessors and will offer a unique motoring experience. The Atalanta is built with the help pf contemporary technology which enhances performance and safety. In fact, 90% of the component parts are designed and engineered directly by Atalanta, including castings, forgings and fabrications.

What is more, the car features hand-crafted aluminium-over-ash coach-built structure. If we have to describe the car in thee words, they will definitely be style, innovation and performance. The visitors to the Concours of Elegance will have the opportunity of seeing the chassis number 1 of the brand new model, as well as the 1937 Atalanta. Both vehicles are owned by one person -Matthew Le Breton.

Atalanta Motors is currently taking limited commissions for the new Atalanta car. Each will be built to individual specifications, making it completely unique.

Source: Atalanta Motors

September 2, 2014

Jaguar D-Type Leads the Parade at 2014 Goodwood Revival

Jaguar’s presence at the 2014 Goodwood Revival will feature one of company’s most amazing models including the Lightweight E-type which is making its European debut there, the F-TYPE Project 7 and more importantly the 60th anniversary of the legendary Jaguar D-type. The last car will be featured in the Lavant Cup race, which will be dedicated to the D-type with more than 20 examples of this legendary competition model. What is more, the ex-Jaguar Le Mans winner Andy Wallace will be competing in a 1955 ‘long-nose’ D-type.

Parade of D-types will take place around the Goodwood circuit on Revival Friday and Sunday. In fact, this event makes a record number of examples of the racing Jaguar gathered in one place. Furthermore, the Lightweight E-type continuation model will make its European debut at the Goodwood Revival

The next car to be seen at the event is the F-TYPE Project 7 designed and constructed by Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations. The vehicle will be exhibited within the popular Earls Court Motor Show at the Revival. Another car that will be on display there is the Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe.

Over the Revival weekend, there will be another 25 plus Jaguars and Jaguar-powered cars, which will be competing at the Goodwood motor circuit. For instance, there will be seen models sucha s C-types and E-types, plus Mark I and Mark VII saloons and more. In addition, various historic Jaguar models will be present at Goodwood too, like examples of almost every classic Jaguar model.

Source: Jaguar

September 2, 2014

Ford Announces Pricing For Latest Focus Range [VIDEO]

The latest Ford Focus is going on sale in UK dealerships from November. The car will be packed with wide rage of standard and optional technology features such as featured automated parallel parking, Active City Stop low-speed collision avoidance, Traffic Sign Recognition to monitor and record road signs and Blind Spot Information System. What is more, the new Focus is the first Ford to offer Perpendicular Parking.

This is an additional hands-free parking technology, which assists drivers reverse into spaces alongside other vehicles. In addition, the Active Park Assist utilizes ultrasonic sensors to find parking spaces and steer the vehicle while the driver controls the accelerator and brake. The designers have added new sensors to the rear that enable the Perpendicular Parking to operate in the same way.

The sensors also enable technologies such as Cross Traffic Alert and Park-Out Assist. The first one warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may be about to pass behind them. On the other hand, the second one assists drivers as they exit a parallel parking space.

Ford’s second generation connectivity interface, SYNC2 is also featured in the car. It comprises of a high-resolution, eight-inch colour touch screen and voice control. SYNC 2’s navigation system also offers a split-screen display.

MyKey aid for novice drivers is also a new feature in the Focus, which lets owners programme a key which restricts the top speed, reduces the maximum volume of the audio system, and can disable it altogether if the driver and passengers are not using safety belts.

The powertrain options in the new Ford Focus feature the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.5-litre diesel engine and the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine. The latter produces 182 hp (134 kW) and 270 Nm (200 lb-ft) of torque.

2014 Ford Focus has a starting price of £13,995, The Focus range consists of six-series line-up, including Studio (£13,995), Style (£16,795), Zetec (£18,295), Zetec S (£20,045), Titanium (£19,795) and Titanium X (£21,795).

httpv://youtu.be/pQo7mQoWJRw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

September 2, 2014

Dodge Challenger A/T Untamed Concept: Muscle Car or an Off-Roader?

Dodge Challenger A/T Untamed Concept combines two worlds: the one of the iconic American muscle car and the one of the off-road universe. This Challenger is sleek enough for the city nightlife and rough enough for the off-road landscape. It visual appearance looks extreme and because of this it catches the attention immediately. It looks “more muscle” than ever. Joey Ruiter, who is responsible for this incredible work, pushed the performance, power and capabilities of the iconic Dodge from the street to the dirt.He has customized almost everything – from body armor to racing seats, this ride is “ready for some serious use”. Precisely, the car has received new front long travel arms, rear trailing arm with links and body armor with rock sliders. The designer has also added new fender flares, front skid plate, integrated lower light bar and of course the distinctive A/T logo badge.But if you think that the customization stopped here, you might take into consideration the following body modifications, which include wheel well trimming, inner fender wall construction, exhaust tuck and reposition, off-road tool storage and spare tire truck mount.As one can see the muscle car form the outside has some graphic twin striping. Furthermore, being a true off-roader with some serious amount of power under the hood (just thinks about the Hellcat engine), the car needed more safety equipment. Unfortunately this project is only in a concept form, but we are impatient to see it become a reality very soon!

September 1, 2014

Buick Launches 2015 Envision in China

2015 Buick Envision is comapny’s entrance into China’s SUV segment. The model just made its world premiere at Chengdu Motor Show and it will be offered later in four variants: AWD Elite, AWD Luxury, AWD Versatile Flagship and AWD Versatile Sporty Flagship. The model has been built upon the Buick Envision concept vehicle and carries the same contemporary design. It is stylish and sporty and features new intelligent drag-reducing grille, wing-style front and rear lights with LED lamps inside, curved flank lines, 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, an aluminum alloy luggage rack and a wing-shaped spoiler.

The dimensions of the model measures 4,667 mm in length, 1,839 mm in width and 1,696 mm in height. It rides on a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These numbers only mean a roomy interior. Furthermore, the split rear seats fold flat thus providing up to 1,550 liters of space. There are also 24 storage compartments.

The Envision will be offered in five exterior colors: Snowy White, Glacier Silver, Pearl Black, Topaz Brown and Sky Purple. Inside, the vehicle features Buick‘s 360-degree integrated interior design. The occupants will find inside driver-friendly center console, Burgundy or Swallowtail Black interior, black piano accents and dual stitching.

This SUV is powered by the 2.0T direct injection turbocharged engine, which produces 260 horsepower (191 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 353 Nm (260 lb-ft) of peak torque at 5,300 rpm. The capable unit takes the Envision from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds. The engine is coupled with a six-speed DSS intelligent transmission. What is more, the model comes with the engine start/stop system as standard and supports fuel economy of 8.8 L/100 km.

2015 Buick Envision features intelligent all-wheel-drive system, which includes two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches in the rear axle. They automatically distribute torque from the front to rear wheels and between the rear wheels as needed. The result is more responsive, flexible and efficient driving.

Vehicle’s chassis comprises of MacPherson strut front suspension, an optimized and fully independent four-link rear suspension, and a full front subframe. In addition, the FlexRide system delivers four selectable driving modes: Normal, Tour, Sport and Off-Road.

Next, the Envision is also equipped with wide range of technology features. For instance it comes with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, Collision Mitigation Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and intelligent headlights.

Not to mention the anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, a traction control system and Hill Start Assist. All of these features come as a standard, while as an option are the Hill Descent Control, OnStar and Automatic Parking Assist system.

The designers of the car have also included a specifically made for it human-computer interactive platform. This system connects the vehicle with people and their smartphones and includes eight-inch high-definition touchscreen, multifunctional buttons on the steering wheel, a touchpad and voice control.

Other features that need to be mentioned are the standard large panoramic sunroof, front power seats with heating, cooling and ventilation functions and a heated sport steering wheel.

Source: Buick

September 1, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Lamando with Première in China [VIDEO]

2015 Volkswagen Lamando is another car that the western world will see only in pictures. The model has just made its debut in China at the Chengdu Auto Show. The good news however, is that the Lamando is the Chinese version of the popular sporty Volkswagen CC. The model was previously known in the country as Volkswagen NMC. It is built on the MQB platform, which is the same platform utilized for the Golf VII.

The car will be manufactured in China by the Shanghai-Volkswagen joint venture. In fact, there are rumors going that the model will be also produced in Mexico, but Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed anything yet. Although the Lamando is dubbed as a “four-door coupe” it definitely looks like a sedan to us. Another proof for that is its boot volume which is of 500 liters (17.6 cu-ft).

The car will be driven by either of these to engines: 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI four-cylinder petrol units. Both will be coupled with a seven-speed DSG transmission. 2015 Volkswagen Lamando will be launched on the Chinese marked in November this year. The pricing will begin at around 180.000 yuan which is approximately 29.000 USD. The Chinese name of the car is Ling Du (凌渡).

httpv://youtu.be/iHfrrSJx82E

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Volkswagen via carnewschina

September 1, 2014

Chris Ingram’s Peugeot 208 R2

Chris Ingram’s Peugeot 208 R2 carries a very distinctive appearance. Distinctive Union flag livery adorns the car, which is Peugeot UK’s 208 rally entry. Chris Ingram and his 208 embarked on the European Rally Championship round in Barum, in the Czech Republic this weekend. The 20-year-old is fulfilling his dream of a career in top-flight rallying and his progress thus far has been impressive. In fact, the official Peugeot UK driver is currently ranked the number #1 under 21 year old Rally driver in the world!

Peugeot 208 R2 Rally Car is constructed to ERC competition specification ‘R2’ and designed to be an affordable competitive start in professional rallying. It is produced by Peugeot Sport and features styled design derived from the popular road-going 208. In addition, it also features short overhangs and a flowing transition between the bonnet and windscreen pillars.

In comparison to the 207, the 208 is 40 kg lighter and at the same time includes longer wheelbase, which improves stability with a lower centre of gravity. This also boosts car’s road-holding capabilities. Despite the reduction in weight, safety is hasn’t been sacrificed. 208 R2 boasts a strengthened shell with a multi-point welded roll cage.

Furthermore, this Peugeot is powered by a competition version of the 1.6-litre VTi road car engine, which is naturally-aspirated and generates 185 hp (136 kW). This modern power-unit comes equipped with variable valve timing (VVT). The company is also offering gravel and asphalt versions of the 208 R2. They are made available in kit form, including a fully-built engine.

Source: Peugeot

September 1, 2014

2015 Nissan Rogue Goes On Sale in the US

2015 Nissan Rogue is currently going on sale in the United States. The second-generation Rogue enters its second model year, thus receiving a number of improvements for 2015. Some of them include the Eco mode is added to the Xtronic transmission, heated cloth seats featured in the SV Premium Package, and a new Arctic Blue Metallic exterior paint scheme. 2015 Nissan Rogue is offered in three trim levels: S, SV and SL.

Its bold and sharp lines lend the sporty and confident appearance to the vehicle. Other exterior highlights include halogen headlights with signature LED daytime running lights, muscular front fenders and hood, body color outside mirrors with standard integrated turn signals and rear spoiler. As an option Nissan is offering LED headlights with auto levelizer, fog lights, privacy glass, roof rails, heated outside mirrors, power panoramic moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

The interior of the model offers luxurious experience and more than enough space for the occupants. Inside, there is available 7-passenger seating with the optional stadium-style and flat-fold 3rd row 50/50-split bench seat. Rogue is also equipped with advanced Divide-N-Hide Cargo System providing 18 adjustable variations between the cargo and occupant areas.

Furthermore, the standard interior features include “Zero Gravity” front seats, 5.0-inch center meter Advanced Driver Assist Display, RearView Monitor, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant, optional Quick Comfort heated front seats, leather-appointed seats, heated cloth front seats and Bose audio system with nine speakers.

The available technology features comprise of NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, 7.0-inch color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition, NavTraffic and NavWeather, SiriusXM Travel Link, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Forward Collision Warning (FCW).

2015 Nissan Rogue is powered by the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with an Xtronic transmission with Sport and Eco Mode switches. The unit produces 170 horsepower (125 kW). The SUV is available with an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel drive.

Other technologies that are featured in the 2015 Rogue include Active Trace Control, Active Engine Braking and Active Ride Control, 4-wheel independent suspension, Electric Power-assisted Steering and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System.

2015 Nissan Rogue Pricing: