Lidia Todorova – Page 150 – Automobiles Review

McLaren P1 GTR Design Concept To Debut At Pebble Beach

McLaren P1 GTR, the track focused model, was teased more than a month ago, Now the concept is shown in a sketch form, but gives us better idea of what this vehicle will look like. The P1 based GTR concept will be shown at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance at the McLaren Brand Centre on the 18th Fairway at the Pebble Beach Lodge on 15th August. The public debut will happen at the Pebble Beach Concept Lawn over the course of the weekend.

The car was created as a response to requests from buyers. They wanted the road legal McLaren P1 to have a track focused edition. This new McLaren model will deliver even greater levels of performance, grip, aerodynamics and downforce than the road car.

The car will include big range of technology features and will be driven by a powertrain that is promised to produce an intended power output of 1,000 PS (986 hp). Furthermore, the car will run on race-proven slick tyres and will feature more aggressive and distinctive styling.

McLaren P1 GTR will go into production in June 2015. This will mark the completion of the 375th and final example of the road-legal car, and two decades from the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans win by the legendary McLaren F1 GTR.

P1 GTR has been priced at £1.98 million. Each unit will be individually tailored. The exact number of the track-focused model is still to be determined, but it is certain that it will be strictly limited.

Source: McLaren

July 28, 2014

ATS Reveals Lightweight Leggera Roadster

Lightweight Leggera Roadster - Front Angle ATS Leggera is red and fast open-top two-seater and it is made in Italia. Yes, ATS has nothing to do with Cadillac, but stands for Automobili Turismo e Sport. This is an Italian automaker that has been created in the 1960’s by former Ferrari staffers. ATS Leggera Roadster is born with the idea to revive the concept of Italian sports cars which were famous back in 50s and 60s. These vehicles are still kept dear and alive in the memories of millions of fans.

This model is the first one to include a front midcenter positioned engine in order to optimize weight distributions. They are rated at 50% -50% between front and rear axles. It has a stainless steel tubular frame chassis with large diameter tubes, but its architecture is made of lightweight materials. The result is that the overall weight of the car is 650 kg.

In addition, the suspension is double wishbone with adjustable Ohlins shock absorbers. The Italian automaker also offers an optional kit. The hubs are machined from solid aluminum, while the brake system includes 6-piston calipers at the front and rear and ventilated discs.

ATS Leggera is driven by two versions of the Turbo 1600 engine. The power of 210cv and 240CV determine the two versions – the 300 and 365 Leggera. The top version is offered as standard with selectable dual map Road / Race and launch control.

The engine is coupled with a five-speed manual reinforced transmission. There is also available a streightcut gearbox and a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The basic version of the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 220 km/h. It runs on 16″ alloy wheels which are offered as standard.

Inside, this ATS includes bespoke leather seats, wooden steering wheel, and Smiths instrument panel centrally located. There are also 3-point seat belts, adjustable aluminium pedalbox with brake balance knob as option, a shift knob and an aluminum fuel cap, chrome mirrors, aluminum switches, LED rear lights, front and rear anti-roll bars, stainless steel fuel tank and solid painting.

Source: ATS Autosport

July 25, 2014

Subaru Teases New WRX S4 Sports Sedan

Subaru has released the first teaser image of brand new model called WRX S4, which will be exclusively distributed throughout Japan. The car will be unveiled exactly in one month. In addition, for this occasion the company has launched a special website to reveal the first picture and later in the coming days – additional information. You can visit is just by clicking here.

The all-new sports sedan will be introduced in Japan on 25th of August 25. The WRX S4 will have Subaru’s top All-Wheel Drive (AWD) sports performance characteristics. It will also achieve unique overall safety performance with equipment included like the next-generation EyeSight.

The brand also announced that the model will deliver superior environmental friendliness, meaning that it will probably achieve great fuel efficiency, as well as offer high-quality feel. By fusing these values and putting the attention on the AWD system as a core attribute, the WRX S4 is set to achieve new attainments.

The vehicle will enable more drivers to get the maximum of its superb driving performance and in the same time will also offer greater safety and comfort. In fact, the S4 stands for the four attributes of the car: “Sports performance”, “Safety performance”, “Smart driving” and “Sophisticated feel”.

Source: Subaru

July 25, 2014

Ant-Kahn Shows New Render Of Evanta Barchetta

Ant-Kahn Evanta Barchetta has just been teased with a new render image and some technical details. The co-founders Afzal Kahn and Ant Anstead have revealed through various social media sites this image, which shows that the forthcoming British sports car will be an open-top two-seater. They have also announced that it will be made from a lightweight composite material. This retro-styled Barchetta will have its official premiere at the Goodwood Revival motor show in September.

In fact, the vehicle looks like a classic Italian car. However, Ant-Kahn promises to utilize only the most modern prototyping and manufacturing technology at its best UK-based design and production centres. Other exclusive news around the model is that it will be powered by a 6.2-litre unit, which will produce 450 horsepower (330 kW).

Unfortunately, there are no additional details revealed. Its slim design is undoubtedly retro-inspired. And we sincerely hope to see that when the car comes to life it will keep this staggering red exterior color as well as the classic multi-spoke wheels.

Kahn’s unique Barchetta will probably boast luxury interior and many innovative technology features. As one can see from this side-view image, the car has a protruding rear wheel arch and comes with heavily vented flanks.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 25, 2014

Aston Martin Confirms Production Of Lagonda Super Saloon

Aston Martin Lagonda is an exclusive super saloon which will be built in a very limited edition series. The production of the car will start in the beginning of 2015. This super saloon will feature a bespoke programme which aims to revive the historic Lagonda nameplate. In addition, the Lagonda badge will be positioned on the ultimately luxurious and exclusive model. The car brings back to life the Lagonda ethos of ‘the finest of fast cars’. The vehicle will be offered only in the Middle East.

The car will be based on Aston Martin’s flexible VH architecture, but it will also draw inspiration from the highly sought-after William Towns-designed Lagonda of 1976. The company announced that the car will include many of the same cutting edge engineering techniques such as the extensive use of carbon fibre in the body panels.

In addition, the saloon will be hand-built and crafted. What is more, the new Lagonda will be offered for sale by invitation only. The exact pricing details remain confidential, while the asking price will be accordingly car’s luxurious nature.

The return of Lagonda follows in the revival of other Aston Martin’s projects. These are the One-77 hypercar, V12 Zagato and last year’s CC100 Speedster Concept. Just like its exclusive siblings, Lagonda has been created as a piece of automotive piece art.

Source: Aston Martin

July 25, 2014

2014 Ford Falcon XR8 Unveiled

2014 Ford Falcon XR8 performance sedan is an example of how the car’s iconic history can be blended with company’s new global design DNA. This means that the new Falcon XR builds on its distinctive design but at the same time offers an entirely new personality. The car has just has been revealed and Ford states that this is the best Falcon ever created. The XR6 and XR8 incorporate the new design philosophy of the company via the signature trapezoidal grille, chiseled headlamps and smoother tail-lamps with LED technology. These are the enhancements featured in the 2014 model and will be applied to the entire Falcon range.

Furthermore, the XR8 has bold exterior graphics. As you can see, the front end has received distinct sporty treatment, as well as signature bonnet power dome. The exhaust system was specifically tuned for the V8 engine.

One of the new and distinctive features is the design of the headlights which has a sporty quad-head lamp treatment. XR’s slim headlights deliver high-end technical look and include ‘hockey stick’-style LED daytime running lamps. In addition, the lens reflectors also get distinctive “XR” shields and there are also unique fog lamp bezels.

The new form of the grille provides more purposeful look and demonstrates the sporty nature of the car. The power dome, which extends up to the windscreen cowl, additionally adds to this nature.

At the rear end of the car, there are jeweled split tail-lamps which accentuate car’s wide, purposeful stance. The tail-lamps are brand new and they utilize LED technology. In addition, the boot lid has new design and features an integrated rear spoiler. The lower diffuser on the XR8 includes round quad exhaust tips. 2014 Ford Falcon XR8 will be offered with a choice of three engines: EcoBoost, V6 or V8 petrol.

Source: Ford

July 25, 2014

Toyota Announces 2015 Yaris US Pricing

2015 Toyota Yaris has already gone on sale across the Old Continent. Now the Japanese company is announcing the US pricing for the model, which is listed below. Undoubtedly, the faselifted Yaris has a distinct design with European flavor. It features quieter interior made of new materials. It will be available in three-door or five-door liftback versions. New is the horizontal chrome grill which continues right in to the headlamp.

Inside the cabin the occupants will seat in premium seats, while the driver is facing a sporty new dashboard design and touches new, softer materials throughout. Next to this, 2015 Yaris also boasts retuned suspension,a more rigid body structure, improved sound insulation and and aerodynamic details. They help the urban min deliver smoother, more dynamic and quieter ride.

In terms of safety, the car adds nine standard SRS airbags, including curtain shield airbags and front seat cushion airbags. Facelifted Yaris is powered by the 1.5-liter, 16-valve, four-cylinder DOHC engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i). It generates 106 hp (78 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 140 Nm (103 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,200 rpm.

The powertrain is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. For the new model year it features improved hydraulic clutch. As an option Toyota us offering four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, which features lightweight design and low friction in order to achieve high fuel efficiency.

There are several trim levels offered. The first one is L that is the base level. Next come the premium LE and sporty SE models. Standard features on the L grade are air conditioning, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, new, quick ratio, sport-tuned Electric Power Steering with power-assisted rack-and-pinion, power windows with driver’s side auto down, three-spoke tilt steering wheel, power door locks, Daytime Running Lights, and 15-inch wheels with wheel covers.

2015 Yaris LE adds over the base level the following: cruise control, power mirrors, steering wheel audio controls silver/metallic interior accents, remote keyless entry with an engine immobilizer and 15-inch alloy wheels.

SE package adds projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights, integrated fog lamps, rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension with a solid stabilizer bar and four-wheel disc brakes and special gloss black with machine-surfaced 16-inch alloy wheels. Inside, SE is includes leather-trimmed tilt three-spoke steering wheel and shift knob, sport meter and tachometer.

The entire Yaris range includes as a standard Entune Audio with a 6.1-inch touch screen, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, six speakers, HD Radio with iTunes Tagging, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod®= connectivity and control, hands-free phone capability, voice recognition, and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology.

2015 Toyota Yaris US Pricing:

Model#	Grade	Transmission	Body Style	2014 MSRP	2015 MSRP	MSRP change ($)	MSRP Change (%)
1421	L	5MT	3DR	$14,430	$14,845	$415	3%
1422	L	4AT	3DR	$15,155	$15,570	$415	3%
1424	LE	4AT	3DR	$16,015	$16,505	$490	3%
1463	SE	5MT	5DR	$16,540	$16,820	$280	2%
1462	L	4AT	5DR	$15,455	$15,945	$490	3%
1464	SE	4AT	5DR	$17,340	$17,620	$280	2%
1466	LE	4AT	5DR	$16,490	$16,880	$390	2%

Source: Toyota

July 24, 2014

Dodge Receives Three J.D.Power APEAL Awards

Dodge has earned highest ranks in three segments in J.D. Power’s U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study of this year. The awarded vehicles are Dodge Charger, Challenger and Dart which are leaders in Large Car, Midsize Sporty Car and Compact Car segments, respectively. APEAL awards are based on customer feedback. They come in the perfect time, when Dodge is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The APEAL Study finds out the level of gratification of the driver, based on customer evaluations of 77 vehicle attributes. The owners are surveyed after 90 days of ownership.

Other five Chrysler’s vehicles were raked in the top three in their segments. Precisely, Jeep Cherokee is at the third position in the Compact SUV segment, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango are ranked second and third in the Midsize SUV category, Fiat 500L is ranked third in the Compact MPV segment and at last, the Ram 2500/3500 tied for second in the Large Heavy Duty Pickup segment.

2014 Dodge Charger is the only four-dour muscle car in the world. Equipped with the V6 engine, it produces 300 horsepower (220 kW). OThe other engine in the range is the HEMI V8 that generates 370 hp (272 kW). It features four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and one of the best handlings and refinements.

2014 Dodge Challenger is the most popular car in Dodge’s range. It has led the Midsize Sporty Car segment in J.D. Power’s APEAL not only this year but also in 2011 and 2012. It is powered by 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower (224 kW).

When equipped with the Scat Pack performance stage kits, plus Shaker performance hood with its HEMI V8 engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element for cold-air induction, the 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker delivers up to 375 horsepower (275 kW). This fall, Dodge is unleashing the most powerful and fastest muscle car ever. 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat produces the staggering 707 horsepower (520 kW).

At last, the 2014 Dodge Dart hides under its hood the 2.4 liter engine with 184 horsepower (135 kW). It is also equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, hyper black 18-inch aluminum wheels, and features such as 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen media center and LED racetrack taillamps.

Source: Dodge

July 24, 2014

2015 Subaru Legacy Ad Campaign [VIDEO]

2015 Subaru Legacy was exclusively introduced in February during the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. In May this year it officially went on sale and now Subaru is introducing the new ads campaign of the car. We are all passengers, all sharing a ride on the same planet. The new Legacy is another proof that the greater the peace of mind the easier it is to sit back and enjoy the ride. And this Subaru model is all about comfort, safety, and convenience.

Legacy is positioned in the mid-size sedans range and it is a smart alternative to the mainstream choices. There will be a total of three US national television spots: “Passengers,” “The Fix” and “Jr. Driver”. They will al highlight Subaru’s values of reliability, safety, capability and longevity.

The 2015 Legacy comes equipped with 2.5i engine which is coupled as a standard with Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode and paddle shift control switches. It also features Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. More importantly, the unit produces 175 horsepower (129 kW) and impressive fuel economy of 26 city/36 highway mpg.

In these TV spots, Subaru focuses on what really matters for a car owner: peace of mind. The ads are centered on the Legacy’s ability to help the consumer do all the things they enjoy to do. The first ad is called “Passengers” and proposes that all passengers are sharing a ride in the same planet-sized carpool. The next two spots are called “The Fix” and “Jr. Driver” and you can watch them along with “Passengers” below.

2015 Subaru Legacy delivers enhanced fuel efficiency, all-wheel drive as standard, refined interior, sharper styling and the largest cabin in its class as well as Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

httpv://youtu.be/GglMJ99DkbQ

httpv://youtu.be/88MIb1SuNCs

httpv://youtu.be/1sXvtgWo1NQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Subaru

July 24, 2014

Mopar Offers Shaker Hood Kit For 2015 Dodge Challenger

2015 Dodge Challenger is the start of the month being the most powerful production muscle car ever created. Now Mopar has prepared for it Shaker Hood Kit which will stirs up the status quo, and will achieve even more performance gains. The entirely functional Mopar Challenger Shaker Hood Kit encompasses two part numbers: Shaker Induction Kit and Shaker Hood Kit. The hood is delivered ready for paint.

The performance of the vehicle in motion is enhanced by forcing cold, high-pressure air through the Shaker Hood scoop. The new tweak offered by Mopar is an all-aluminumand has been built according to Chrysler’s production guidelines. The hood have undergone computational fluid dynamics analysis in order to determine the size, shape and location parameters of the Mopar Dodge Challenger Shaker Hood Kit, as well as aerodynamic testing conducted at Chrysler’s wind tunnel.

Additional extreme testing proved that the kit functions properly when the car is under severe challenging environmental conditions. These include water fording, rain downpours and snow pack conditions. The baseplate, Shaker duct, as well as the air box of the hood were constructed in such way that they can prevent water from entering the clean air duct and eventually the engine.

The components of the kit are additionally strengthened with corrosion protection. As a matter of fact, the Mopar Challenger Shaker Hood Kit endured 150,000 miles of testing, which proved its durability. Mopar says that no special tools are required for assembly. Mopar Challenger Shaker Hood Kit is available for purchase at Chrysler’s dealerships.

Source: Mopar

July 24, 2014

Porsche Reveals Updated 2015 Cayenne Range

The key characteristics of the 2015 Porsche Cayenne Range have been just announced. The new Cayenne has an updated and sharper design, enhanced efficiency and offers wide range of standard equipment features. The new generation of this Porsche model will be launched in five versions: Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S, Cayenne S Diesel, Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne S E-Hybrid. The latter is the first plug-in hybrid offered in the premium SUV segment.

Another interesting fact around the 2015 Cayenne S is that its new 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo engine was fully developed by the company. All in all, each powertrain that drives the new generation models show enhanced performance and efficiency figures. The improved efficiency is due to modifications to the entire drivetrain, the advanced ‘Auto Stop/Start Plus’ function and the optimized thermal management.

As mentioned, the Cayenne S E-Hybrid is the first ever produced plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment. The car is equipped with a lithium-ion traction battery with an energy capacity of 10.9 kWh. The battery enables an all-electric driving range of 18 to 36 km. Furthermore, the electric motor now produces 95 hp (70 kW) and works together with the three-litre V6 supercharged engine which generates 333 hp (245 kW).

Together, both power systems produce a combined output of 416 hp (306 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a total system torque of 590 Newton metres (435 lb-ft) from 1,250 to 4,000 rpm. This enables an acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.9 seconds on the way to a top speed of 151 mph. The top speed in all-electric driving is 77 mph. Cayenne S E-Hybird shows combined fuel consumption of 83 mpg and CO2 emissions of 79 g/km.

The next innovation in the 2015 Cayenne range is the new 3.6-litre V6 bi-turbo engine that powers the Cayenne S. The powertrain was developed entirely at Porsche. It has a fuel consumption rated between 29.7 mpg and 28.8 mpg and CO2 emissions at 223-229 g/km.

The output of the bi-turbo V6 is measured at 420 hp (309 kW) at 6,000 rpm, while the torque – at 550 Nm (405 lb-ft) and it is available from 1,350 to 4,500 rpm. The unit is coupled with a standard eight-speed Tiptronic S transmission, thanks to which the Cayenne S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds (5.4 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package).The top speed is 161 mph.

The third model under our attention is the Cayenne Turbo, which is powered by the 4.8-litre engine with eight-cylinders and twin turbochargers. It has the ability to generate 520 hp (382 kW) at 6,000 rpm and torque of 750 Nm (555 lb-ft) from 2,250 to 4,000 rpm. More power and torque means faster acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, which in this case is rated at 4.5 seconds (4.4 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package). The top speed here is 173 mph, while the fuel consumption is rated between 25.2 to 24.5 mpg and the CO2 emissions between 261-267 g/km.

Porsche offer two diesel variants for the Cayenne: Diesel and S Diesel. The firs one is driven by the three-litre V6 engine. It produces 262 hp (193 kW) at 4,000 rpm and has a fuel consumption of 42.8 to 41.5 mpg. The CO2 emissions are 173-179 g/km. The torque of this Diesel version is 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm. Powered by this engine the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds (7.2 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package), and has a top speed of 137 mph.

Cayenne S Diesel is powered by the 4.2-litre V8 engine, which generates 385 hp (283 kW) at 3,750 rpm and torque of 850 Newton metres (627 lb-ft) from 2,000 to 2,750 rpm. It delivers fuel consumption of 35.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of 209 g/km. From a standstill it reaches 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds (5.3 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono package) on its way to a top speed of 156 mph.

More update in the 2015 Cayenne range include chassis tuning. In this way the new SUV will deliver more comfort and sporting responsiveness. The exterior appearance of the car was also refined and now exudes sharper design with precise lines and purposefully-placed angles. To be more precise, entirely new are the design of the front body, the front wheel arches, the bonnet and the airblades in the nose.

The designers have kept the emblematic for the model bi-Xenon headlights, characterized by four-point LED daytime running lights. They come standard in the Cayenne and Cayenne S models. The Turbo version is further emphasised by LED headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) fitted as standard.

At the rear one can also see new styling treatment. The design of the rear lights creates a three-dimensional effect, and the brake lights include four distinctive elements. In addition, the number plate recess, boot handle and lights have new design which allows integrating them more elegantly into the tailgate. The designers also re-shaped the horizontal lines of the SUV, the exhaust tailpipes which are now integrated in the lower rear section, and also added an automatically opening/closing tailgate as a standard.

The interior of the car is also changed. For instance, the driver gets a new multi-function sports steering wheel with gear shift paddles as standard. The rear seating system is now more comfortable, and seat ventilation can now be ordered as an option.

The standard equipment on all Cayennes feature Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive, Bi-xenon headlights with four point LED daytime running lights, multi-function sports steering wheel with paddle-shifts, ParkAssist front and rear, cruise control, automatic climate control, powered tailgate, Sport button and Start/Stop technology with coasting function.

The Turbo gets as a standard LED headlights with Porsche Dynamic Lighting System, 19” alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with self-levelling air suspension, Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation and BOSE Surround Sound audio.

Source: Porsche

July 24, 2014

DD Customs Refines Chevrolet Camaro SS

DD Customs Chevrolet Camaro SS comes offering more power and enhanced undercarriage for better transverse dynamics. This Camaro will surely cause goose-bumps in any fan of the muscle car. The production version of this Chevy produces from its V8-engine up to 400 horsepower (294 kW). However, this wasn’t enough for the owner and he wanted an improved output. For this reason DD Customs gave the eight-cylinder engine a K&N air filter system, a 2-inch fan manifold, two 200-cell race catalysers and a flap-controlled exhaust system with four 115 millimeters thick end pipes. The result is the staggering 475 horsepower (350 kW) and a a maximum torque of 609 Nm (449 lb-ft).

Next, DD Customs decided to create a special exhaust system for this Chevrolet. When it is with open flaps, the V8 „screams” loudly enough to turn your head after the car, if you by accident didn’t see it passing by.

Before the conversion of the engine, the customers gave the Camaro a KW version 1 undercarriage. In this way they have lowered the car and improved its grip. At the same time, they have mounted rare Drewske wheel rim of type STC-10 in the 22-inch format. The wheel rims were then painted in black and red. The wheel/tyre combination perfectly fills the wheel houses and it measures 9×22 inch with 265/30R22 at the front and 11×22 inch with 305/25R22 at the drive axle.

There were also changes made to the outer skin of the muscle car. The tuning company developed in-house a special front spoiler lip made of light-weight carbon fibre. It was attached below the serial bumper. They developed also a carbon cowl, which also makes the car unique. At last, DD Customs integrated a carbon rear diffuser into the car’s tail. It frames the four gigantic exhaust end tubes of the flap unit and perfectly rounds out the new appearance of the iconic muscle car.

Source: DD Customs

July 23, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova