Lidia Todorova – Page 146 – Automobiles Review

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 – US Pricing Announced

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is finally going on sale. This model is the most powerful and technologically advanced car in General Motors’ history. Z06 is offered in coupe and convertible form in three trims: 1LZ, 2LZ and 3LZ. The new Z06 features stronger aluminum frame, an aero package delivering more downforce and supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine. The unit is rated at 650 horsepower (485 kW) and 650 lb-ft of torque (881 Nm).

Advanced technologies are also introduced on the Corvette Stingray, such as direct injection and Active Fuel Management. Combined with the fuel-efficient multi-speed transmissions, aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, these features make the new Z06 surprisingly efficient.

Additional technologies enhancing performance and driving experience include the third-generation Magnetic Selective Ride Control, Performance Traction Management, and an electronic limited-slip differential. Furthermore, Z06 offers three increasing levels of aerodynamic downforce. The first one is the standard Z06 which includes a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and an aggressive rear spoiler.

The second one is the available carbon-fiber aero package which is offered in either carbon flash paint or a visible carbon-fiber finish. This pack comprises a carbon-fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill. At last, the available Z07 package adds larger winglets to the front splitter. There are also adjustable sections on the rear spoiler for track use.

The new Corvette will also feature for the first time the innovative Performance Data Recorder (PDR). This technology enables users to record high-definition video, with telemetry overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track.

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 has a starting price of $78,995, while the convertible model will start at $83,995.

Source: Chevrolet

August 25, 2014

Toyota Previews Second FT-1 Sports Car Concept [VIDEO]

Toyota showed recently a second interior styling and exterior colour for an upscale interpretation of the breath-taking FT-1 sports car concept. It was developed by Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The vehicle, which features graphite exterior paint and light-coloured leather accents, was on display for the first time at the Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival gala held on California’s Monterey Peninsula.

When the original FT-1 concept ignited enthusiasts with its January debut at the North American International Auto Show, it carried bold red exterior color scheme. This second version impresses with sophisticated graphite.

In terms of interior, the first car was dominated by bold, masculine black that kept the driver focused on the road. There were also red painted edges and raw metals which provided intriguing accents.

In contrast, the second FT-1 Concept includes natural leather accents on the seat which are supple with an all-natural grain. In addition, the painted edges that are red in the first concept are now subtly blended brown in the second.

The Calty creative designer, of the interior, Sellene Lee, drew inspiration for the FT-1 interior from the modern, high-tech performance materials used for today’s superhero costumes. In order to achieve the FT-1’s advanced-looking and detailed interior, Lee and her team compared leather accent thickness, grain size and texture to find the perfect combination.

For instance, the chosen raised metal mesh delivers ventilation for the seats and at the same time gives more textural, bold effect that beautifully matches with the metal accents. A dimensional embossed pattern on the instrument panel brings in a 3-D, technical look.

Another exclusive news regarding the FT-1 is that this September it will be available for download for the Gran Turismo 6 (GT6). Just like the red version of the car, the graphite FT-1 concept will also roar onto the GT 6 racetrack as a downloadable vehicle for a limited time.

What is more, for the celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Gran Turismo series, Calty has also designed an ultra-high-performance race version of the FT-1 that inside the game is called “Toyota FT-1 Vision GT”. You can take a look how it came to life by watching the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/uuXFyCHp59w

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

August 22, 2014

Matthew McConaughey and the Lincoln MKC [VIDEO]

2015 Lincoln MKC now has its own TV and digital ad campaigns, in which we will see the Award-winner Matthew McConaughey [Dallas Buyers Club]. Lincoln Motor Company and the actor have signed a multi-year collaboration contract. McConaughey will act as a storyteller in series of upcoming TV and digital campaigns. The first one features the 2015 MKC small premium utility.

The actor revealed that he is a longtime admirer of Lincoln, being an iconic, American brand. He has already driven the MKC around Texas and thinks Lincoln have done good job. But the most important thing for the actor is the authenticity. He said, “It was clear from the start they appreciated me as an individual first and foremost, and I would be able to be myself in this collaboration.”

The director of the ads will be Nicolas Winding Refn [“Drive”]. He has already created a storyline for McConaughey around the MKC. In the spots, the actor invites viewers to experience the vehicle through unscripted moments in the commercial.

In 2012 Lincoln started re-launching the brand and committed to introducing four all-new products in four years. Following the MKZ midsize sedan is the MKC. This SUV is a pure example of brands high standards of quality, luxury, compelling design and personal service. And as Matthew says, “Sometimes you’ve got to go back to actually move forward”. The Lincoln MKC was built to help customers live in their moment.

httpv://youtu.be/Ii6Sj2hAfSs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lincoln

August 22, 2014

SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE – Pricing and Specs Announced

The specifications of the new SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE have just been announced. This is the latest addition to the Leon line-up following the-soon-introduced SEAT Leon CUPRA 280 with Sub8 Performance Pack and SC White-Line. The vehicle has a permanent four-wheel-drive which contributes to its off-roader looks. Thanks to its four-wheel-drive and extra ground clearance, the Leon X-PERIENCE is the perfect vehicle in any road conditions. The visual all-road stance of the car is further strengthened by the protection mouldings on the door sills and wheel arches, plus the aluminium look touches for the rear bumper and lower front spoiler. The integrated fog lamps and twin chrome tailpipes as well as the air intakes at the front signal back to the Leon ST model.

Leon X-PERIENCE features all-road suspension with extra ground clearance. In addition, the 4Drive all-wheel-drive system with intelligent EDS dynamic control accurately distributes weight between all four wheels. It also optimizes traction, handling and stability. There’s also an extended electronic differential lock (XDS).

The car comes in two trim levels, SE and SE Technology. The SE features 17-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, black roof rails and dark tinted rear windows. Rear parking sensors and twin exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, SEAT included dual zone climate control, leather steering wheel with orange stitching and X-PERIENCE logo, as well as cloth upholstered front sports seats with simil leather bolsters. At last, what deserves also to be mentioned is the featured Hill Hold Control and a chrome loading sill for more protection.

SE Technology brings a wealth of extras: SEAT Media System Plus with 5.8-inch colour touchscreen, DAB and satellite navigation, plus auto headlights, wipers and dimming rear view mirror. On the outside, the model gets LED headlights and taillights, electrically folding door mirrors and 18-inch ‘X-PERIENCE’ machined alloy wheels. Inside, the interior is wrapped in Alcantara upholstery and simil leather bolsters.

Furthermore, the Spanish company is also offering optional LUX pack for the Leon X-PERIENCE. The upgrade adds black leather upholstery with simil leather bolsters, heated front seats, headlight washers and heated washer nozzles, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and chrome roof rails.

SEAT Leon X-PERIENCE will be available to order in the UK starting 1st of September. It will be launched in showrooms in December. The pricing starts at £24,385.

Source: SEAT

August 22, 2014

Chevrolet Introduces 2015 Silverado Rally Editions

2015 Chevrolet Silverado Rally Editions are showing that the 1500 double-cab and crew-cab pickups can have somewhat different appearance. The Rally 2 Edition package for 2015 Silverado LT pickups includes a body-colored grille with a black bowtie as well as 22-inch black alloy wheels, black tubular side steps and black mirror caps and door handles. What make the Rally Edition even more distinctive are the two black Rally stripes on the hood and tailgate.

Next, the trailering package offered here comes with a hitch and automatic locking rear differential, 10-way power driver seat, dual-zone climate control, remote start, backup camera and rear defroster. There is also eight-inch Chevy MyLink radio that features built-in Wi-Fi hotspot with 4G LTE connectivity.

The 4.3-Liter EcoTec3 V-6 engine powers the Silverado. It produces 285 horsepower (210 kW) and 413 Nm (305 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the vehicle to tow of up to 7,200 pounds. V-6 can also switch to four-cylinder mode which will ensure better fuel efficiency under light-load driving of up to 24 mpg. As an option, Chevrolet is offering the 5.3L Ecotec3 V-8 unit, which generates 355 horsepower (261 kW), and provides the great fuel economy of 23 mpg (highway).

The company is also offering two Rally 1 packages for 2015 Silverado. The package for LT Silverados comprises of a body-colored grill with a black bowtie, black door handles and mirror caps, stripes and 17-inch aluminum wheels. There is also included the trailering package. For 2015 Silverado LS models, the Rally 1 Edition package features body-colored grille with black bowtie, black door handles and mirror caps and two black rally stripes.

Chevrolet will start taking orders for the double-cab Rally Editions from 4th of September, while the crew cabs will be available for order in October.

Source: Chevrolet

August 22, 2014

RTR Teases Two 2015 RTR Ford Mustangs

Two 2015 RTR Ford Mustangs have been revealed in several renderings. The RTR Spec 1 and Spec 2 serialized vehicles will be available in dealerships globally in January next year. Of course, they are based on the new Ford Mustang S550 platform that includes independent rear suspension. The Spec one muscle car will be powered by either the new 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine, which produces more than 300 horsepower (220 kW), or the 5.0L V8 generating over 435 hp (320 kW). The Spec 2 will only be available with the V8.

The Mustang RTRs will feature aggressive styling characteristics and all-encompassing performance off¬erings expected from the RTR brand led by World Champion Drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr. In fact, RTR promises that the performance and overall presence of the Mustang RTR will impress and keep a smile on our drivers’ faces.

In 2014 Spec 1 upgrades comprised of RTR Axleback exhaust system, high-performance tires and Ford Racing springs. The springs lower the Mustang by 1 inch. On the other hand the exhaust system increases the horsepower with 9 hp.

In terms of exterior enhancements, there have been added front and rear spoilers, ducted surrounds, signature graphics, special wheels and RTR badges. The interior of the Mustang Spec 1 will feature RTR-branded shift knob, floor mats, badges and numbered serial plate signed by Vaughn Gittin Jr.

2014 Spec 2 included Ford Racing Tune treatment which contributed to 16 hp increase of horsepower, K&N air filter, upgraded suspension with adjustable shocks and struts, front and rear sway bars, chassis supports and cross-drilled brake rotors. In terms of exterior it stepped over the Spec 1 but added rear diffuser, RTR Rocker splitters, special rear deck-lid graphics and unique badges.

2015 RTR Mustangs will be exclusively available at Ford Dealers around the world.

Source: RTR

August 21, 2014

Arden Individualizes MINI’s Interior

The German based Arden tuning company has just released some details and pictures of its latest project. The customization specialists have worked this time on the enhancement of a MINI in cabrio form. And given the fact that driving pleasure is not just a question of technical parameters, but also depends upon interior design, they have disclosed primarily details of what they have done inside the car.

There are almost limitless possibilities to individualize the vehicle’s interior. Of course, Arden has done this with handcrafted perfection. Every working process, including this MINI, is performed in the in-house saddlery of the company, which is positioned in Krefeld.

In this particular project, they have utilized only the finest materials such as Conolly leather and Alcantara. Carbon fiber, chrome, precious wood and even a complete leather conversion – all this is what makes MINI’s interior individualized. This contributes to a very unique ambiance inside the car. Arden also included wide range of attractive accessories and individual interior features such as extensive entertainment and audio systems, or a pedal set.

From the outside, we can see that the car has been also customized: from the handmade and electro polished stainless steel grille to the brand new wheels. The unique bi-color paint scheme further contributes towards the charming appearance of the car.

This MINI runs on “Mini Challenge rims” in the dimensions of 8 x 18 inches. They are made from solid block thus weighing only 6,9 kg. In addition, they provide the necessary traction and guarantee optimum driving characteristic and excellent smoothness.

Source: Arden

August 21, 2014

2015 Audi TT Gets A-Grade Evaluation

2015 Audi TT has received A-grade evaluation. The new model benefits from emissions reduction of 11 per cent compared with its predecessor, while the increase of power is also substantial, namely – up to 14 per cent. In this way, Audi has made significant step in minimizing the whole-life impact on the environment. The increase in power output and the simultaneous decrease in greenhouse gas emissions contribute towards new life cycle assessment.

Basically, each car of the third-generation TT saves around 5.5 tonnes of greenhouse gases over its entire life cycle. And we are not speaking only of carbon dioxide, but also of other substances such as methane, nitrous oxide and halogenated organic emissions.

Many technologies have contributed for this positive change. This first one is the lightweight construction of the car. Thanks to specific combination of materials, Audi engineers have, for the second time in a row, succeeded in reducing the TT’s weight.

Back in 2006, the engineers managed to achieve up to 90 kilograms weight savings. Now, the front-wheel driven 2.0 TFSI Audi TT, weighs just 1,230 kilograms and this means that the car is around 50 kilograms lighter than its predecessor.

The intelligent lightweight construction and the weight reduction of the 2015 TT also have an impact on the vehicle manufacturing process. Precisely, the saved greenhouse gas emissions in this step are around nine per cent. Audi also states that the new generation car offers a better life cycle assessment right from the very first mile.

Source: Audi

August 21, 2014

Dotz Shift Volkswagen Passat Freeride si

Dotz Shift Volkswagen Passat Freeride si is a very simple project which looks stunning. This is because the wheels and rims specialists at Dotz Shift have supplied it with Dotz Freeride si. These are all-year rims with its five spokes and the shiny silver coating that makes it a true eye-catcher. The customizers promise that they can endure driving fin for every season. They have dynamic construction with the asymmetric design elements at the outer rim as well as minimalist structure.

As mentioned, the finish of the wheels is in shiny silver. It truly makes them stand out in all weather conditions. The wheels are offered by Dotz in numerous ABE applications from 15” to 19”. Moreover, they are Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) approved and are one hundred percent compatible with ALCAR T-ProSensor.

Volkswagen Passat as we can see serves as the perfect vehicle for these rims. The 2015 model year car was unveiled in the beginning of last month; in front of public it will be premiered at Paris Motor Show in October. This is the eighth-generation Passat and in its construction the engineers have saved up to 85 kg.

One of the main highlights of the model is the four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, bi-turbo diesel engine. It generates 240 horsepower (176 kW) and the huge 500 Nm (370 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm. This engine will be mated only with the new seven-speed DSG gearbox and will also feature 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The sales of 2015 Volkswagen Passat will start before the end of this year.

Source: Dotz Shift

August 21, 2014

Six Customized 2015 Honda Fit to be on Display at SEMA

Six build teams will each customize 2015 Honda Fit, which later will be on display at the 2014 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. In this way, the company will showcase the great personalization potential of the new model via an ambitious project vehicle program and interactive Tumblr experience, which starts today. To go further into details, Honda has selected six build teams: Bisimoto Engineering, Kontrabrands, MAD Industries, Spoon Sports USA, Tjin Edition and Kenny Vinces.

Each team will customize a 2015 Honda Fit which will later be displayed at the SEMA Show. Every single personalized Fit is expected to receive modifications such as aerodynamic body kits, wheels, custom paint jobs and much more.

To support this Fit project, Honda is starting the Fit Performance Project (#ProjectFit) on its official Tumblr page. In this way fans will have the opportunity to follow teams’ progress with each vehicle.

#ProjectFit starts from today and will continue through 22nd of October. It will feature many photos, animated GIFs and videos. On Tumblr people can vote for their favorite customized Fit by liking and reblogging posts tagged with #ProjectFit. The shop which will gather the highest total likes and reblogs will win and receive an award from Honda.

The last to be mentioned is that the Fit Performance Project posts will include several themes. For instance, “Preview” will reveal the design illustrations or renderings of the cars, the “Show Us Your Mods” will display five modifications made to the vehicle, while “In Progress” will reveal headway on the design.

Source: Honda

August 21, 2014

Vorsteiner Lamborghini Aventador-V Zaragoza

Vorsteiner Lamborghini Aventador-V Zaragoza is the newest creation of the Californian based tuners. They have been working on it for the past months and now show their project with exclusive and beautiful photo-session. The latest addition to the Aventador-V program is the Zaragoza front spoiler. The customizers reveal that it was a particularly difficult to create it, because it is constructed to fit with the existing OE front bumper in a single piece of carbon fiber.

To ensure this spoiler is incorporated and unified with the distinctive Aventador character, Vorsteiner has extended lines from the factory bumper in order to flow with the lower, wider, and longer carbon spoiler. To go further into details, the Zaragoza front spoiler is approximately 25 mm lower, 25 mm wider, and 200mm longer when one compares it to the factory front bumper.

There are also added vertical blades which direct air away from the body. This results in decreased drag and turbulence and also significantly optimizes downforce and increases the stability of the front end at high speeds by directing the air away reducing frontal pressure. Aventador-V gets not only the Zaragoza, but also – an active aero wing, side blades and rear diffuser as well as OE Exterior Carbon Package.

This particular Lambo shown in the pictures below runs on Technica Multipiece VTM-350 Forged Wheels in Matte Black finish. The wheels come in sizes 20×9 at the front, and 21×13 at the rear. They are fitted with Pirelli P Zero tyres in the dimensions of 255/30/20 and 355/25/21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Source: Vorsteiner

August 20, 2014

Infiniti Previews Mysterious Car Debuting in Paris

The next news for today from Infiniti is slightly strange. The company has released a teaser image showing the grille and emblem of a future car, as well as a press released which hasn’t got more than 40 words in it. The company has stated in it that it will push the preconceived limits with more style and substance. It also disclosed that it will share a vision – “its soul – on a scale not seen before from the company”.

The last sentence however says more than the photograph or the text together: “À bientôt.” This French phrase means in English “See you soon”. This clearly had lead us to the thought that the future Infiniti model will debut at the Paris Motor Show, which will take place between 4th and 19th of October.

Clearly that photograph doesn’t say much about the upcoming vehicle, except for the elegant detailing on the grille pattern. Nevertheless, the grille has almost the same shape like most of the company’s products.

What we expect, given the image and the scarce details, is that the car will be a concept vehicle rather than a production one. The mystery which keeps us still hanging is the question in what form this vehicle will be.

Source: Infiniti

August 20, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova