Lidia Todorova – Page 144 – Automobiles Review

2015 Toyota Camry Facelift for Russia

At the current Moscow International Motor Show, Toyota has introduced a specifically facelifted version of its best-selling 2015 Camry. The car not only gets a visual makeover but also receives some engine updates and wide range of new features. The Russian version of the car is pretty much different from its North American sibling, which was also updated recently.

For instance, take a look at the redesigned front end and the protruding lower grille. There is also new design of the headlights, while the upper chromed grille is thinner than this of the US version. At the rear of the model we can see that the bumper has been resculpted.

The back also includes redesigned and definitely more elegant chrome strip, which runs across the entire width of the Camry. Toyota also prepared for the Russian customers new design of the alloy wheels.

The interior of the car has also undergone several modifications. The sedan features entirely new backlit instrument panel including a 4.2-inch color TFT-display mounted in its center. The steering wheel has also been restyled, while the center console features 6.1- or an available 7.0-inch screen. The equipment was also enhanced with the presence of wireless mobile charger, automatic beams and heater rear seats.

Next to the already known range of engines, Toyota is adding to the Russian version of Camry the 2.0-liter four petrol engine. It produces 150 horsepower (110 kW) and is coupled to six-speed automatic transmission. The accelerations time for the car from 0 to 100 km/h is rated at 10.4 seconds, while the average fuel consumption – at 7.2l/100km.

Source: Toyota

August 29, 2014

Jaguar Mark 2 by Ian Callum [VIDEO]

Jaguar Mark 2 by Ian Callum is a very special car as it visible from the pictures. The unique car was redesigned by Ian Callum, who is the Director of Design at Jaguar Cars, and reengineered by leading restorers Classic Motor Cars Limited. To accomplish the project, both parties needed 18 months. They have retained the integrity of the original Mark 2, whilst making it even more exciting in shape and performance.

The car boasts a huge number of aesthetic and technical modifications which make it more practical, reliable, enjoyable and exciting. For instance, the car is powered by the modified and uprated 4.3 litre XK engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. It also features unique independent rear suspension and upgraded front brakes.

Furthermore, the Jaguar is now 30 mm lower to the ground and runs on 17” split rim spoke wheels. The bumpers are now part of the overall form. Four louvres appear on the side of the car and add a sense of power and individuality.

CMC worked on the suspension. The front includes a bespoke power assisted rack, uprated coil springs, roll bar and wishbone bushes, adjustable dampers and solid subframe mountings, repositioned to improve anti-dive characteristics. Next, the independent rear suspension now features uprated coil springs, blade control wishbones, outboard disc brakes, an anti-roll bar and adjustable dampers.

Inside, the car has been fitted with Clarion’s NZ502E single DIN multimedia station. It includes 16 cm flip-out touch screen and component loudspeakers in specially-designed housings. The car will make its first public debut at Salon Prive between 3rd and 5th of September at Syon House in Brentford.

httpv://youtu.be/da6YFvi4R6w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Classic Motor Cars

August 29, 2014

Chevrolet Teases Z71 Package for 2015 Tahoe and Suburban

Chevrolet has just announced that its famous 2015 Tahoe and Suburban will continue to offer features and variants to meet the needs of its customers. Precisely, the company will offer a Z71 package for the models. Unfortunately, Chevrolet didn’t release more information except for that the additional features and production timing will be announced in late September. It also revealed a picture showing the Z71 badge.

Back in 1988, the company revealed the first official special Z71 package on its full-size pickup trucks. While in 2001, Chevrolet added the Z71 package to Tahoe and Suburban. The models from the model year 2015 feature an evolutionary design with a prominent grille and distinctive headlights. There is also an angular hood and a lot of chrome trim.

The vehicles are powered by the more-efficient, direct-injected EcoTec3 powertrain. There is also improved aerodynamics, which working in team with the engine deliver greater fuel economy.

The interior of the models was also enhanced with premium materials. The ergonomics were improved and they demonstrate the Tahoe and Suburban’s blend of sophistication, craftsmanship and function. The new instrument panel features eight-inch color touch screen. What is more, the compartmentalized center console is large enough to store a laptop or iPad.

Now, the vehicles will also feature OnStar 4G LTE with a standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charging capability and a hands-free liftgate. Chevrolet is the first brand to bring built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi to cars, trucks and crossovers.

Source: Chevrolet

August 29, 2014

Vauxhall Announces More Details on 2015 Corsa

2015 Vauxhall Corsa was unveiled more than a month ago but only in pictures and scarce details. Now the company is releasing the more technical details of the fourth-generation of its famous model. Vauxhall’s new Corsa will make a world premiere at next month’s 2014 Paris Motor Show. The event will take place in the beautiful French capital between 4th and 19th of October.

One of the highlights of the vehicle’s engine line-up will be the new 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo petrol engine.

The unit meets the latest Euro 6 emissions regulations. It will be available with either 90 hp (66 kW) or 115 hp (85 kW) outputs, each of which achieves 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque from just 1,800 rpm. These numbers are particularly evident during acceleration.

The Corsa equipped with the engine delivering 115 hp, makes possible the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 10.4 seconds. Furthermore, the new ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo is fitted with Start/Stop technology as a standard. This contributes towards excellent economy. The 90 hp three-door version has a fuel efficiency of just 54.7 mpg on the combined cycle.

Vauxhall is also offering Euro 6 compliant 1.2 and 1.4-litre naturally-aspirated engines with 70 hp (52 kW) and 90 hp (66 kW). There are also the available the more refined Euro 6 compliant 1.3 CDTi engines with 75 hp (55 kW) and 95 hp (70 kW).

In addition, turbo chargers will deliver smooth driving and acceleration at low engine speeds with minimal noise generation. Both diesel engines come with fuel-saving Start/Stop technology fitted as standard. At launch they will be mated to five-speed manual transmission and will also include braking energy recuperation system. The latter reduces CO2 emissions down to 85g/km and achieves fuel consumption of 87.8mpg on the combined cycle.

The pricing of 2015 Vauxhall Corsa will be announced on 2nd October. The first models of the car will go into production later this year.

Source: Vauxhall

August 29, 2014

Kahn Shows Range Rover RS300 Causeway Grey Edition

Kahn Range Rover RS300 Causeway Grey Edition features a sophisticated colour scheme, but more importantly it is equipped with an aggressive ten-piece wide body kit. Thanks to it the character of this SUV is entirely changed. At the front of this Land Rover we see a new spoiler flanked by two vertical LED daytime running lights incorporated into the extended fenders. In addition, a 3-D mesh kit is positioned inside the RS grille and sits below a large KAHN badge at the front of the hood.

New are also the sills, door handles and fender vents, which run towards the rear. At the back the designers added widened fenders. The rear is rounded out by a special tailgate logo and rear windows, which are additionally adorned by privacy glass.

This customized Range Rover sits on Kahn RS600 wheels. The dimensions are 9.5 x 22 inches at the front and 11 x 22 at the rear. There has been also added brake callipers finished in liquid gold.

The interior of the car has also been customized. The specialists at A. Kahn Design have added a special mix of luxury and sport features and a limitless array of custom-tailored extras. The luxurious trim decorates the dashboard and fascia. The seats are adorned with quilted and perforated black leather highlighted by contrasting stitching.

The same leather design can also be seen on the door panel tops with quilted and perforated stitching. The instrument binnacle and glove box feature quilted leather for that extra touch of luxury. Black charcoal floor mats, stainless steel door entry sill plates and Cosworth vented and machined aluminium foot pedals is what rounds out the modifications done here.

Source: A. Kahn Design

August 29, 2014

Opel Shows Mokka Moscow Edition

Opel Mokka Moscow Edition is a very fresh addition to company’s Russian line-up, which was shown for the first time at the Moscow International Motor Show. Next to it, Opel presented there two other vehicles with strong emotional appeal, which are scheduled to go on sale in early 2015. The first one is the new Opel ADAM, which makes Russian premiere next to its wild sibling ADAM ROCKS. The models will be available in Moscow from January next year.

The next vehicle which made a premiere is the most powerful Opel – the all-wheel drive Insignia OPC. It is powered by the 2.8 V6 Turbo engine, which delivers 325 hp (239 kW) and a meaty 435 Nm (321 lb-ft) maximum torque.

Opel Mokka Moscow Edition is the star of the show, because it shows exciting design concept specifically created for Russia. The sub-compact SUV is designed in such way that it actually pays homage to Moscow.

The car carries a customized graphic inspired by the Moscow city map. For instance, such are the ‘o’ in the stylized Mokka name, on the hood, roof, rear and inside, represents the city center, its inner circle. The stylish interior perfectly adds to the headliner in finest Alcantara adorned with the leading motif.

Mokka’s cladding on the nose, front and wheel-arches includes dark-blue tone. It contrasts with the dominant orange body color and gives the Opel strong off-road appeal.

The next news around the Mokka is that in early 2015 Dakar rally will be launched. The Hungarian Opel-Team Balázs Szalay/László Bunkoczi will be again preparing a very special Mokka to take part in the legendary competition.

The Mokka ‘Dakar’ is equipped with 25 cm suspension travel, huge 520-liter safety fuel tank and body components made from carbon fiber. It is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed sequential transmission. The unit pumps out 340 hp (250 kW) and torque of 660 Nm (487 lb-ft). The car can be currently seen at the show.

Source: Opel

August 28, 2014

Datsun mi-DO is a Five-Door Hatchback for Russia

Datsun mi-DO has just made its debut at the Moscow International Autosalon (MIAS). The five-door sibling of Datsun on-DO made it worldwide launch there, being the second Datsun model which will be seen on the streets of Russia. The on-DO was revealed in April this year and its first deliveries are expected in September. mi-DO is a sporty five-door hatchback, which is dominated by brand’s confident ‘D-Cut’ grille.

The grille in turn is flanked by dramatically elongated projector headlamps that stretch virtually from grille to fender. This differentiates the sedan and the hatchback at a glance. Both models however share the same wheelbase and front-wheel drive chassis layout. The mi-DO is shorter which emphasizes its driving dynamics.

Precisely, the wheelbase is 2,476 mm long, 1,500 mm tall and 1,700 mm wide, but the new Datsun mi-DO is 3,950 mm long in comparison to the Datsun on-DO which is 4,337 mm. In terms of equipment, the designers have prioritized the comfort and safety. Every car will have a driver and passenger airbag as well as ABS. As a standard there will be also included a winter pack with heated seats and door mirrors.

The new mi-DO will be powered by the 1.6-liter 8V engine, which produces 87 horsepower (64 kW). The unit will be coupled as a standard with a five speed manual transmission, while the option is the four-speed automatic transmission.

And if you wonder about the names Datsun on-DO and Datsun mi-DO, well they reflect cars’ international heritage, encompassing Japanese, English and Russian themes. DO is a Japanese word that translates ‘moving’ and also refers to a ‘way’ of doing things. The Russian word ‘on’ is means ‘he’, while ‘mi’ sounds to a Russian speaker like the English word ‘me’ and personalises the car.

Sales of Datsun mi-Do are scheduled to start in early 2015.

Source: Nissan

August 28, 2014

2015 Nissan Pathfinder And Sentra Sedan Debut in Moscow

Nissan’s presence at the Moscow Motor Show was celebrated with the launch of the eagerly awaited Pathfinder range and the new Sentra sedan. The Pathfinder makes the first-ever Russian-manufactured petrol-electric hybrid, while the Sentra is specifically Russian-built. Other vehicles which make Russian debut at the show are the new Juke and GT-R NISMO. In fact, country’s market is company’s fifth-largest global market, where Nissan is the fifth-largest brand in the market – leaping from eighth place last year.

In addition, Russia is also the only market in the world where Nissan Motor Company is currently selling all three of its brands: Nissan, Infiniti and Datsun. What is more, it has strong collaboration with Alliance partners Renault and AvtoVAZ through joint manufacturing initiatives.

The production of the Pathfinder will be added to Nissan’s manufacturing operations at St. Petersburg, where up to 100,000 units will be built annually. Pathfinder’s hybrid engine variant will be produced there. The plant currently builds the Teana, Murano and X-Trail, and Qashqai will be added in 2015.

Nissan’s new fourth-generation Pathfinder will be powered as a standard by the 3.5L petrol engine. As an option the car will be driven by the 2.5L hybrid engine. Moreover, the vehicle will be equipped with an intelligent 4×4 system and the latest generation X-tronic transmission. This will endow it with great all-road capabilities in any condition.

Next, the 2015 Nissan Sentra is a result of the collaboration with company’s Alliance partner AvtoVAZ. The car will be built at the AvtoVAZ plant in Izhevsk. Nissan also produces vehicles at the AvtoVAZ plant in Togliatti. These include Almera and Datsun On-do.

The new Sentra features modern design and is built with high quality materials. It has a high ground clearance coupled with a comfortable suspension. The C-segment sedan will be driven by 1.6L gasoline engine, which can be mated to either of transmissions: 5-speed manual or X-tronic.

Source: Nissan

August 28, 2014

2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban to Feature OnStar 4G LTE

2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban are now featuring more connectivity and convenience than ever, which further enhances the redesigned SUVs. The new features include OnStar 4G LTE with a standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charging capability and a hands-free liftgate. In fact, Chevrolet is the first brand to bring built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi to cars, trucks and crossovers. In the case of Tahoe and Suburban, the technology will come as a standard on the LT and LTZ models.

Thanks to it the driver and passengers will stay always connected. The hotspot is on whenever the vehicle is on. On the other hand, the hands-free liftgate and wireless phone charging come as an option with the Luxury Package on LT models, but they are standard on LTZ.

In details, the hands-free liftgate allows for a keyless opening and closing of the liftgate by waving foot under a sensor beneath the rear fascia. With the wireless phone charging feature, a magnetic inductive charging system allows users to place their phone on a small mat in the vehicle, where it wirelessly charges.

2015 Tahoe and Surburban are offered in three trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ. Some of their functionality and technology features include the Front Center Air Bag, which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side-impact crashes.

The fold-flat second- and third-row seats contribute for more cargo space and convenience due to the addition of power-folding feature. Moreover, there are more than six USB ports and six power outlets featured inside the vehicles. As an option, Chevrolet is also adding a Blu-ray DVD player, conversation mirror in the overhead console and keyless entry and push-button start.

What powers the vehicles is the standard EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 engine which features direct injection, cylinder deactivation, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system. 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban with enhanced convenience and connectivity will be in October.

Source: Chevrolet

August 28, 2014

Lexus Introduces RX 450h Advance

Lexus RX 450h Advance has been released and it comes to offer more than enough equipment than before. It features the added luxury of a Mark Levinson premium 7.1 surround sound system as standard and runs on the exclusive machined and shaded 19-inch alloy wheels. But the highlight here is the audio system which performs exceptionally due to its carefully engineered array of 15 speakers, including a 200 mm subwoofer. All this is set to support an exceptionally wide frequency range and reproduces perfectly vocals and instrumentals.

The sound package also comes with DVD player rear-view camera and Lexus’s Remote Touch audio and navigation control system. In the 450h Advance are also provided Lexus Premium Navigation and Bluetooth.

Furthermore, the model also benefits from more features which impact its contemporary looks. These include a deep front bumper with integrated fog lights and LED headlights that incorporate Lexus’s I-AFS auto-adaptive system. The latter moves the lighting beam in line with the steering to give better illumination through bends and at junctions.

Next, Lexus is offering the model with a choice of either a sunroof or fixed panoramic roof. There is also wide range of features that reflect the quality, innovation and efficient performance of a hybrid SUV. To name some, they include Smart Entry and Start, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated, eight-way adjustable front seats, heated, auto-diming and folding door mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and rear privacy glass.

Lexus RX 450h is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine and a powerful electric motor. Both they generate the maximum output of 295 hp (217 kW). The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at less than 8 seconds. A second electric motor on the rear axle ensures the all-wheel drive performance when conditions require extra grip. The official combined cycle figures are rated at 44.8mpg and 145g/km.

The company is offering the model in five exterior colours: Velvet Black, Arctic Pearl, Mercury Grey, Satin Silver, and Celestial Black. They can be matched with one of the following trims in the interior: ivory, light grey, black and saddle tan, and an optional Wood Pack.

Lexus RX 450h Advance has a starting price of £48,495.

Source: Lexus

August 28, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Releases Two 2015 C-Class Commercials [VIDEO]

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan has debuted at the end of last year. Now the company is making the first steps of promoting the car throughout the United States via couple of video ads. In them, as you can see below, Mercedes-Benz has once again shown its strength characteristics. The 2015 C-Class is the “lightest, strongest, smartest, quietest, sleekest, sexiest, safest, quickest” C-Class ever built. No matter where one looks, in these adds the new model boasts automotive innovation from every angle.

The car is built around new and more lightweight, resculpted frame that houses a more powerful and efficient engine. There is also an ingenious touchpad control inside that can read handwriting. The new generation C-Class is longer and wider than its predecessor with 80 mm, due to the implementation of a longer wheelbase. The result is more comfort for the rear passengers which will enjoy an increased leg-room.

The car will be offered in three trim levels: C300, C300 4MATIC and C400 4MATIC. C300 4MATIC is powered by the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 241 horsepower (177 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft.) of torque at 6,500 rpms and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The C400 comes with an all-wheel drive and is driven by the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. It produces 329 horsepower (342 kW) and a healthy 480 Nm (354 lb-ft.) of torque. This unit uses the same transmission as the previous one. Later this year more diesel and hybrid versions are also expected to be offered in the United States.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan is currently available to order in the United States from a starting price of $38,400 USD.

httpv://youtu.be/qN6GitH_Bn4

httpv://youtu.be/ZbeXVLWgg_A

Video Source: YouTube

August 27, 2014

Infiniti ESQ is Twin of Nissan Juke for the Chinese Market

Infiniti ESQ is going to be officially shown at the 2014 Chengdu Auto Show in China which will take place on 29th of August. There will be revealed the details specifications of the model. And as you can see, although it is branded as Infiniti, it definitely looks like Nissan’s Juke Nismo but with a different grille and some other distinctive styiling cues. The Nismo twin is driven by a 1.6-liter MR16DDT DIG-T direct injection turbo petrol engine.

The unit produces 197 horsepower (145 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, and drives the four-wheels. Yes, this is the same powertrain which drives the Juke Nismo. The SUV’s engine comes coupled with a continuously variable transmission with manual shifting.

The main difference between both cars is inside. It seems that the ESQ looks more posh than the Nismo. This was achieved via the replacement of suede and Alcantara in the Nissan with leather and cross-stitching in the Infiniti.

The car is scheduled to go on sale throughout the Asian market, specifically in China, starting this October. The expected initial price in US dollars is around $33,000 USD, which is nearly $10,000 USD more than price of the Juke Nismo of the 2014 model year.

Source: Infiniti

August 27, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova