Lidia Todorova – Page 147 – Automobiles Review

Wald International Shows First Image of Customized Bentley Continental GT

Wald International Bentley Continental GT Sports Line is the latest release delivered by the luxury tuning company based in Japan. Thanks to the image revealed we clearly see that they have supplied the Continental GT with aerodynamic kit. Although the customization company didn’t reveal any details about its program for this Bentley, the Sports Line package will clearly feature aggressive lower fascia with a front lip spoiler.

In fact, the design of the car is one of the simplest we have ever seen coming out from Wald International. The new bodykit apparently will also include redesigned front bumper with a blacked out grille and LED daytime running lights.

What is more, there are also revised side skirts which will include air intakes that are positioned ahead of the rear wheels. It is also seeable that the car rides on a set of attractive custom alloy wheels with multi-spoke design.

As the information is scarce, there are no details around any changes in the engine. The Continental GT will probably stay true to its production figures. The car is originally powered by the 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which produces 528 horsepower (389 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at 1,700 rpm. The powerplant is coupled with a close-ratio ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. All this makes it possible for the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds on its way to top speed of 308 km/h (191 mph).

Additional details and images of the Wald International Bentley Continental GT Sports Line are expected to be released very soon. Stay tuned.

Source: Wald International

August 20, 2014

Land Rover Teases the Interior of Discovery Sport [VIDEO]

Land Rover has jut teased the interior of the upcoming Discovery Sport model via a special video. The first look inside the new Discovery Sport reveals its “5+2” seating configurability, luxurious environment and the used premium materials. The short film shows glimpses of the cabin design. In fact, the new premium small SUV is the first member of the new Discovery family of vehicles.

The seven seater is expected to be powered by a variety of petrol and diesel four-cylinder engines. Furthermore, Land Rover has previously announced that the first mass production engine will be the turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel.

With the release of the “In the film”, viewers are shown around the luxurious interior as the camera glides through the cabin. The footage not only shows details of the versatile seating layout, but also reveals desirable features such as the luxurious full panoramic roof.

Versatility is one of the key characteristics of the Discovery family. And next to the optional 5+2 seating, generous load space and configurable seating the new model deserves to wear the Discovery badge. In addition, this video also displays the high cabin quality and craftsmanship implemented inside.

Land Rover Discovery Sport will be unveiled officially and worldwide on 2nd of September. The new car is expected to go on sale in 2015.

Source: Land Rover

August 20, 2014

Infiniti Q50L Debuts in China

Infiniti Q50L is the long-wheelbase version of the Q50 sports saloon which has just made its premiere in China at the Chengdu Motor Show. The car has a 48 mm (1.9 in) longer wheelbase than the standard model thus delivering more space and comfort for rear passengers. Unfortunately, Q50L won’t be distributed anywhere else in the world. It is dedicated to the mainland Chinese market and will be offered exclusively there.

Q50L premium sports saloon has several trim levels: Comfort, Elegant, Sports, Luxury and Luxury Sports. They come to offer a wide range of personalized choices for the customers. Infiniti says that first deliveries will start in the beginning of November.

Furthermore, the Q50L will be produced in China at the Xiangyang factory in Hubei province. This is company’s fourth assembly plant. The introduction of the model marks the next step in the Infiniti’s global growth plan, namely – to turn China into Infiniti’s second volume hub globally. At

To go into details, the new Infiniti Q50L has an overall length of 4852 mm and wheelbase enlarged to 2898 mm. It is powered by the turbocharged 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder gas engine that produces 208 hp (153 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is coupled with 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.

In terms of safety and technology, Q50L is equipped with the world’s first steer-by-wire system – Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS), intuitive double touch-screen Infiniti InTouch HCI system, Active Lane Control (ALC), Bose 14-speaker Studio on Wheels audio system, in-car mood light system, rear window sunshade, electronic anti-glare side mirrors and much more.

Source: Infiniti

August 20, 2014

2015 Lexus RC F is Getting Ready for Launch

2015 Lexus RC F made its global debut at this years NAIAS event in the beginning of the year. Now the coupe is ready for launch before the end of the year in the United Kingdom. This is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced. The car features contemporary styling combined with thoroughbred performance, handling and advanced new technologies. In the UK this Lexus will be launched in two versions RC F and the RC F Carbon.

Both of course will be powered by the 5.0-litre, 32-valve V8. This engine was specifically developed for the RC F and matched to calibrated eight-speed Sports Direct Shift transmission. The results it achieves are impressive, namely – 450 hp (330 kW) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft).

When one looks from the sides the RC F, the first thing to grab the attention is the 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Brembo brakes behind them. There are also Sachs monotube shock absorbers and an active rear wing, Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

RC F Carbon benefits from additional features such as torque-vectoring differential and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof, bonnet and rear spoiler. It gives the driver the choice of with three operating modes with which he or she ca operate traction and vehicle control in different scenarios. The use of CFRP contributes significantly for reduction of weight. This material has been originally developed by Lexus for its LFA supercar.

Furthermore, the RC F also takes advantage from the comprehensive array of comfort, safety and advanced technology features. The coupe comes equipped with high and low beam LED headlights with automatic high beam function, a 10-speaker multimedia system including DAB, DVD player, a new Remote Touch touchpad control and Lexus Premium Navigation, dual-zone climate control and Drive Mode Select.

In terms of safety, the brand has provided eight airbags, a reversing camera, Hill Assist Control, Lane Departure and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a blind spot monitor and VDIM, ABS, brake assist, traction control and electronic brakeforce distribution. Other features include front and rear parking sensors, electric, auto-dimming, folding and heated door mirrors; cruise control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, electric steering column adjustment and keyless Smart Entry.

Inside, the luxurious feel of the RC F is strengthened by the high-grade leather upholstery and electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation functions. Throughout the interior there are Lexus ‘F’-themed details. As available features, Lexus is offering Adaptive Cruise Control with a Pre-Crash Safety system and a Mark Levinson Surround Sound system.

RC F Carbon also runs on 19-inch forged alloy wheels; however inside it features Alcantara upholstery. The Mark Levinson Surround Sound system here is included as standard. The ACC/PCS combination is optional.

Order books for 2015 Lexus RC F and RC F Carbon are open now. The first cars are expected to arrive to customers in late January.

Source: Lexus

August 19, 2014

Ford Begins Testing Of Right-Hand-Frive Mustangs

2015 Ford Mustang is already a fact. It has been unveiled months ago and all we are waiting for is seeing it on the streets rolling powerfully. Now, Ford is announcing, that for the first time ever, a right-hand-drive Ford Mustang will roll off a Ford assembly line when the production starts. This is great news because the addition of a right-hand-drive Mustang to Ford’s line-up will allow the famous pony car to be exported to more than 25 right-hand-drive countries. Some to mention are United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa.

The construction of the very first right-hand-drive sixth-generation Mustang has been recently finished. The prototype will be utilized for various development tests which will serve as preparation for car’s entry into the global market in the coming months.

Of course, the United States have been for the latest 50 years the largest market for Mustang on the world. In fact, there have been more than 9.2 million sales since the car’s debut in 1964. For this period of time, more than 161,000 Mustangs have been sold outside of North America.

2015 Ford Mustang will be powered by one of these three engines: the upgraded 435 horsepower V8, the standard 300 horsepower V6 and the new 310 horsepower EcoBoost. Every powertrain can be coupled with either a manual or automatic transmission.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost also produces 434 Nm (320 lb-ft) of torque. EcoBoost benefits from direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing and turbocharging thus producing big-engine power and torque with improved fuel economy. The must powerful unit is the 5.0-liter V8 engine. It has undergone many upgrades which help it work better in higher speeds. It has an output of 435 horsepower (320 kW) and 542 Nm (400 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The sixth-generation Mustang will go on sale in the United States this autumn and in the UK in 2015. It will be made available in more than 110 countries worldwide.

Source: Ford

August 19, 2014

2015 Jaguar XE to Feature Advanced Connectivity

2015 Jaguar XE which will be company’s latest addition to its range of vehicle will be premiered in London on 8th of September. This is a well known fact, but what we don’t know is that it will be equipped with equipped with a wide range of technologies offering smooth ride, sharp steering, quiet cabin and seamless connectivity. In other words the XE is designed to make every journey an enjoyable experience.

Jaguar will introduce its InControl infotainment system on the 2015 XE. This system was designed around an 8-inch touchscreen and features a clear, intuitive user interface. The latter ensures quick and easy access to all features and functions. On the other hand the voice control function utilizes plain speech means that drivers can keep their eyes on the road at all times.

Furthermore, the new vehicle will also allow drivers to stay connected via their smartphones. Precisely, Jaguar InControl Remote allows users of iOS and Android smartphones to connect to the car from wherever they are and control variety of vehicle functions such as seven-day timed pre-setting of the climate control system, locking and unlocking the doors and starting the engine.

We can’t speak about smartphones without mentioning applications. Jaguar InControl Apps allows users to access smartphone apps through the vehicle’s touchscreen. This technology is of course making much easier to operate functions such as calling someone, finding a parking lot or booking a hotel room. XE can also function as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

An advanced driver assistance system, which is available as an option here is the new laser Heads-Up Display (HUD). It projects colorful images onto the windshield and provides driver with information such as speed and navigation instructions.

Source: Jaguar

August 19, 2014

Lexus is Introducing New Visibility Technology to the NX Range

Lexus is going to roll out new visibility technology called Rear Cross Traffic alert. It will be featured in its range of sedans and SUVs. The first models to have the innovation are the soon-to-be-launched Lexus NX and RC Lines. In addition, the existing IS, ES, GS and LS, which currently include an optional blind spot monitoring, will also receive Rear Cross Traffic Alert technology before the end of 2014.

The addition of the innovative specification reaffirms company’s commitment to safety. Lexus already has as a standard the reverse camera across its entire model range. This means that the Rear Cross Traffic Alert and blind spot monitoring will only strengthens brand’s stance on safety.

When it will be launched, the brand new Lexus NX will feature 360-degree panoramic view monitor. This technology enables drivers to conduct a visual ‘sweep’ of the vehicle’s exterior prior to driving away to ensure the vehicle is clear of obstructions.

By far, the luxury automaker has disclosed that it is to introduce two NX derivatives – the NX 200t and the NX 300h. The first one is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine while the NX 300h is a hybrid model.

NX 200t will be powered by thr 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which produces 235 hp (173 kW) at 5600 rpm with 350 Nm (258 lb.-ft.) of torque from 1650 – 4000 rpm. NX 300h is driven by the finely-tuned 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter gasoline engine working in conjunction with the electric drive motor. Both they produce 197 horsepower (145 kW) in total.

Source: Lexus

August 19, 2014

SEAT Leon CUPRA 280 Gets Sub8 Performance Pack

SEAT has launched Sub8 Performance Pack as well as two coloured exterior packs – Black-Line and White-Line for the Leon CUPRA 280. The cars will be available with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres and CUPRA bucket seats. The storming CUPRA 280 became the first front-wheel-drive vehicle which was capable of dipping under the eight-minute Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time. The optional Sub8 Performance Pack features more substantial brakes, specially-designed 19-inch alloy wheels in either black or orange and body-coloured side skirts.

The brake discs measured at 370 mm provide enough stopping power in keeping with the car’s potency, and are 30mm larger than those on the standard car. They also feature Brembo four piston callipers. Furthermore, the CUPRA 280’s electronically-controlled limited slip differential offers impressive levels of grip. Leon CUPRA 280 is five-door car, which on one hand is capable of up to 44.1 mpg, while on the other hand it can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) from standstill in only 5.7 seconds.

CUPRA Black-Line and White-Line exterior packs also debuted at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. They were designed to add an extra dose of Latin flair to the Leon flagship. These two shades will be initially available, with more packs to be introduced in the future. Such is the Orange-Line, which will be launched in December.

Precisely, they include CUPRA 19-inch alloy wheels, door mirrors, CUPRA tailgate lettering and front grille surround, and black rear side spoilers. Rounding out the array of option additions for the Leon CUPRA 280 are the special bucket seats. The front seats include one-piece head restraint and are wrapped in black Alcantara with simil leather bolsters and white accents, with embossed CUPRA logo.

Source: SEAT

August 18, 2014

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN is Enhanced Tesla Model S

In the beginning of the year we were informed that the first electric car to be transformed by Saleen will be the Tesla Model S. The FOURSIXTEEN performance electric car was shown for the first time at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The exterior of the car is an example of a harmonious blend of aggressiveness and class. It features the emblematic Saleen DNA design with brand new front fascia and carbon fiber rear diffuser.

At the front of the FOURSIXTEEN there are also aero management vents, which maintain the low pressure field as air acceleration increases around the chassis. In addition, there is also one-of-a-kind V-shaped hood architecture, which efficiently directs hot air away from the drivetrain cooling system.

At the back of this Model S, the rear fascia features a designed high-downforce decklid mounted spoiler. Mid-chassis air is directed across the carbon fiber accents stretching between the taillights. Saleen diffuser boosts further the aerodynamic downforce capability of the vehicle.

What drives the FOURSIXTEEN is the three-phase, four pole AC induction motor and copper rotor with the upgraded Saleen drivetrain. The latter includes new 11.39:1 final gear ratio for quicker acceleration.

Another innovation is the MAXGRIPTM locking differential, which is specific for the tuning company and which allows each wheel to efficiently apply rotational force and maximize traction and grip during performance. Saleen’s high-efficiency drivetrain cooling system ensures that the electric motor works in the appropriate temperature. This system comprises of a larger volume radiator, upsampled cooling fans, and a high-flow water pump.

Furthermore, a specific S4 track-calibrated suspension which features a monotube coilover, works in conjunction with an S4 sway bar setup. All in all this improves cornering agility without sacrificing ride quality. The Stability Control System has been also enhanced via software change.

Saleen-specific brakes have been also included in the modification, which work together with the stability control software, wheel, tire, and S4 suspension system. The standard brake package features 14” 2-piece aluminum hat vented rotors and multi-piston front calipers with performance brake pads. FOURSIXTEEN rides on specifically Saleen designed wheels, which are coupled with ZR-spec tires.

Inside, the tuning company has also made changes. From the handpicked leather palette to the carbon fiber dash accents, the cabin is more luxurious than ever. The seats are wrapped in black leather that features contrast perforated leather accents and Alcantara suede inlays. A new center console has also been integrated into the interior redesign.

To go further into details, the front and rear seating have been remolded in ordered to produce four full bucket seats. Saleen’s tailor-made door panels and a full leather-wrapped dash complimented with hand sewn contrast stitching as well as the black leather seat shells finalize the interior enhancement.

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN Tesla Model S has a starting price of $152,000 USD.

Source: Saleen Automotive

August 18, 2014

Trans Am Series Debut for 2014 Dodge Challenger SRT

2014 Dodge Challenger SRT made a Trans Am Series premiere this weekend. Miller Racing team drove two Dodge Challenger SRTs at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. The four-time series champion Tommy Kendall drove the No. 11 Dodge Challenger SRT, while his teammate and TA2 points leader Cameron Lawrence drove the No. 1 Challenger. Miller Racing gave the team a more-robust support base. In fact, Kendall won four championships in the 1990s and he last competed in the Trans Am Series in 2004.

The driver is best known for winning championships in Trans Am and IMSA. He is also popular with his victory in the 1995 Rolex 24 At Daytona as well as a television analyst for Fox Sports 1 and NBC Sports. Another interesting fact here is that Kendall has the third most Trans Am victories with 28. On the other hand, his teammate – Lawrence, has captured 14 wins in 21 series starts since 2012.

Miller Racing has switched the manufacturers to Dodge but this won’t keep of Lawrence from retaining his TA2 class points. The 21-year-old driver currently holds a 35-point margin over second place. The driver expressed his wish to continue the success he had and to stay on top and keep the season rolling.

The Miller Racing team was “born” in 2012. During the 2013 Trans Am Lawrence won eight of 10 events in the TA2 class, including the last seven-consecutive races. The team has captured 18 Trans Am victories in 26 races over three seasons.

Next to the newly formed partnership with Miller Racing, SRT Motorsports also fields two Dodge Viper SRT GTS-Rs in the IMSA TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, and supports a customer racing program with the Dodge Viper SRT GT3-R in the IMSA TUDOR series, Pirelli World Challenge and Supercar Challenge.

Source: Dodge

August 18, 2014

McLaren Unveils P1 GTR Design Concept at Pebble Beach

McLaren P1 GTR design concept was shown for the first time during a private event at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California. The racing concept is a preview to the final mode. The latter has just entered the next step of development. The P1 GTR will be the most track-focused and powerful model produced by MSO (McLaren Special Operations). In fact, the goal of MSO is to create the best driver’s car in the world on track. The car has enhanced aerodynamics, race-proven slick Pirelli tyres, a fixed ride height, increased power delivery from the IPAS powertrain and large, fixed rear wing and an ERS-style push-to-pass system.

The GTR is based on the McLaren P1 road car, however it is optimized in terms of aerodynamics, features a ‘shrink-wrapped’ body shape, superior handling and enhanced driver engagement on track for maximum performance. Precisely, the front end of the vehicle has been increased by 80 mm and includes more aggressive GT-style front splitter.

The carbon fibre MonoCage chassis is positioned behind the front wheels. It channels the air from around the wheel well. There is also an extra aerodynamic blade, which is mounted behind the wheelarch. It cleans the air from the front tyres. When one looks at the side of McLaren P1 GTR, one sees that it is lower than the road car. This was achieved via the race-prepared suspension with a fixed ride height.

The snorkel air intake is still present within the roof structure of the carbon fibre MonoCage chassis. Another difference is made in the wing mirrors, which are now positioned to the A pillars. In addition, the trailing edge of the door-mounted radiator channels has been extended to draw more air down through the cavity within the door, and into the engine to aid cooling.

P1 GTR runs on lightweight 19-inch motorsport alloy wheels. At the back of the car there is large, twin-element wing which is positioned on the carbon fibre pylons. The hydraulically operated Drag Reduction System (DRS) boosts acceleration performance, and increases levels of downforce.

Below the rear wing there is a centrally mounted exhaust with brand new design and made from inconel and titanium alloy. This system optimizes the output 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine, which now delivers up to 1,000 horsepower (735 kW). The design concept which was shown at Pebble Beach event wears a livery inspired by the original F1 McLaren with chassis number 01R.

Source: McLaren

August 18, 2014

SEAT Introduces Five I-TECH Special Editions

SEAT is introducing the range of I-TECH Special Editions across most of its line-up, which will be sold in the UK. The new versions are featured on the Mii, Ibiza, Toledo, Altea and Alhambra models. Mii member of the brand family comes to substitute the former Toca. It will be offered in three- and five-door versions and will be powered by the 1.0-litre engine that produces 60 horsepower (44 kW).

SEAT Mii I-TECH is very well equipped. It runs on 14-inch ‘Spirited’ alloy wheels with titanium finish and also includes smart I-TECH key cover and black upholstery with gloss grey dashboard panel. The package also features SEAT Portable System Live, which offers sat nav, Bluetooth phone connection with audio streaming, micro SD card slot and integrated trip computer functions.

The next model to get the I-TECH specification is the Ibiza and it will be included in the SC, 5-door and ST body-styles. It is based on SE trim level and is driven by the 1.2 TSI engine, coupled with a manual gearbox. The unit generates 105 horsepower (77 kW). Furthermore, it is equipped with 16-inch ‘Cartago’ alloy wheels with titanium finish and B-pillar I-TECH badges. Like the Mii the Ibiza also gets the unique dark blue cloth and simil leather upholstery with embossed I-TECH logo. There is also a set of I-TECH floor mats, key cover and door sill plates.

Toledo I-TECH Special Edition gets 16-inch ‘Design’ alloy wheels with titanium finish, grey alcantara and black simil leather upholstery, metallic dashboard inlays, plus I-TECH badges on the side and an I-TECH key cover. The former Copa model is replaced by the Altea and Altea XL. Both benefit from sliding rear seats, dual-zone climate control, electric front and rear windows, Hill Hold Control, plus front and rear parking sensors.

What is more, these models are also equipped with central roof-mounted TFT screen in the rear and SEAT Media System 2.2, which features satellite navigation, five-inch colour touchscreen, DAB radio, SD card slot and Bluetooth. The wheels here are the 16-inch ‘Elio’ alloy ones with titanium finish. Other two advantages are the auto headlights and rain sensing wipers. Altea I-TECH is powered by the 1.6 TDI Ecomotive engine, while the Altea I-TECH XL – by the 2.0 TDI.

At last, the fifth model which will be offered in this special edition version is the Alhambra. It rides on 17-inch ‘Dynamic’ alloy wheels with titanium finish, and is equipped with sport-style front seats, chrome and black brushed interior and keyless entry & go. Just like the Altea, it also boasts the SEAT Media System 2.2. Alhambra I-TECH is driven by the 2.0 TDI coupled with either manual or automatic transmission.

Source: Seat

August 18, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova