Lidia Todorova – Page 151 – Automobiles Review

Hot Wheels Darth Vader Car Debuts At Comic-Con [VIDEO]

Mattel Hot Wheels Darth Vader Car is a result of the collaboration between Hot Wheels and Star Wars. They have created the ultimate ride for the dark side. This is a life-size car that is powered by an LS3 V8 engine. It generates 526 horsepower (387 kW), and rides on custom red line tires. It also produces the heavy breathing sounds famous for Darth Vader. What is more, the visitors of Comic-Con that is currently happening in San Diego will have the chance of seeing the car today. At the popular event, they can also have a sneak peek of the amazing Star Wars inspired Hot Wheels character cars and a world of replica die-cast starships and play sets.

The powerful engine drives the rear wheels and also has a backlit, side-exit exhaust system. Furthermore, the “nose” of this unique car is made of carbon fiber, and its design is made in that way so it resembles the Sith Lord’s mask.

In addition, the car runs on MHT set of wheels that were specifically made for it. There are also other design elements that make it really good looking. Just take a look at the triple headlights and the split windshield.

Hot Wheels will also produce 1:64 toy version of Darth Vader’s car. It is packed in a case that is just as character’s red lightsaber. The mini-car will also be limited in numbers so if you wonder buying it you might want to decide faster.

The company has also released a promo video of the car, which of course you can watch below:

httpv://youtu.be/aDCx0PeVOTo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mattel

July 23, 2014

Toyota 86 GT And GTS Get Updated Suspension, Interior And Exterior

2014 Toyota 86 GT and 86 GTS are now getting refined exterior and interior next to its updated suspension. Toyota has made subtle refinements to the widely praised suspension of the sports car. The more rigid suspension setup of these models will contribute for better handling response and steering feel. In addition, it will also improve the overall ride quality. The aim of achieving improved and smoother ride and sharper handling was accomplished via revision of the way suspension components were attached to the chassis.

The body roll was decreased, while the handling stability and response was increased. The latter was achieved by new suspension mounts and adopting lower-friction oil, oil seals and guide bushings. In addition, there was also implemented a retuning of the shock absorbers. In this way their characteristics were refined.

Next to these “under-the-skin” upgrades, Toyota also added new interior and exterior packages to enhance the visual appeal of the model. Inside, the GT variant now comes with the same instrument cluster as the higher-grade GTS.

This means that it features a digital speed read-out and a rev indicator light to warn of the approaching red line. There is also a shift-position indicator. Toyota 86 GTS now includes a reversing camera and a sportier carbon-look motif for the instrument panel surround.

On the outside of both vehicles, Toyota has added a shark-fin antenna to the roof for aerodynamic as well as aesthetic reasons. In addition, the company has also included two new colors in its exterior paint palette: white and silver.

Source: Toyota

July 23, 2014

Ford Has Two New Engines For 2015 F-150 [VIDEO]

2015 Ford F-150 will be powered by two new engines: the 2.7-liter EcoBoost with standard Auto Start-Stop and the 3.5-liter V6 with twin independent variable camshaft timing. They will contribute for more efficiency, performance and capability. The twin-turbo 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 unit includes new design, and can deliver up to 325 horsepower (239 kW) and 510 Nm (375 lb.-ft.). It also enhances the power-to-weight ratio of the truck by 15 percent.

This powertrain also has a maximum payload rating of 2,250 pounds and maximum tow rating of 8,500 pounds. On the other hand, the standard Auto Start-Stop technology for F-150 delivers optimum efficiency. It has been specifically developed for the F-150. It shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops and when the brake is released, the unit restarts. This technology not only helps save fuel but also minimizes CO2 emissions.

2.7-liter EcoBoost uses for the first time the graphite iron cylinder block in a gasoline engine. This material can be seen utilized in the 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel V8 in Super Duty trucks. The composite CGI/aluminum cylinder block reduce weight but at the same time deliver more strength.

The next new engine developed for the F-150 range is the 3.5-liter V6 unit. It delivers up to 5 percent improvement in power-to-weight ratio and also enhanced fuel efficiency and performance. This V6 produces 283 horsepower (208 kW) and 345 Nm (255 lb.-ft.) of torque and has a maximum payload of 1,910 pounds and a maximum tow rating of 7,600 pounds.

Furthermore, the engine has 24-valves and a valvetrain with direct-acting polished mechanical buckets with twin independent variable camshaft timing. In this way it delivers more torque across a wide rpm range. There are also upper and lower intake manifolds that are composite-formed to minimize weight.

What is more, for the new 2015 F-150 Ford has used advanced materials in order to save weight. For instance, the military-grade aluminum alloys contribute to the minimization of body’s weight and at the same time make it stronger and more resistant to dents.

All in all, the when compared to the previous model year, the 2015 F-150 is up to 700 pounds lighter. This not only helps the truck tow and haul more, but also to accelerate and stop faster, and operate more efficiently.

Next, to the new engines, Ford is keeping the 3.5-liter EcoBoost and the 5.0-liter V8 with Ti-VCT for the F-150 range.

Engine	Horsepower	Torque (lb.-ft.)	Payload (lbs.)	Towing (lbs.)
2015 Ford F-150 4×4 2.7-liter EcoBoost	325	375	2,250	8,500
2014 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 2.7-liter four-cylinder	159	180	1,335	3,500
2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4×4 5.3-liter V8	355	383	2,007	11,200
2014 Ram 1500 4×4 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel	240	420	1,620	9,050

httpv://youtu.be/j7SFE0dE9kM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

July 23, 2014

Hyundai Announces Pricing For 2015 Tucson

2015 Hyundai Tucson is not only going on sale today but next to this its GLS specification gets brand new Popular Equipment Package, while its Limited trim adds standard LED Taillights at no cost. The US pricing of the can be seen I details below. This model is Hyundai’s example of combination of style and function. This successful combination is the reason for the car to receive the 2014 Strategic Vision Total Quality Award in the Entry CUV segment and a 2014 AutoPacific Vehicle Satisfaction Award.

First, the Popular Equipment Package that will be added to the GLS trim includes many convenient goods for the interior. Precisely, they are a rearview camera, 4.3-inch color touchscreen audio display, 8-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, leatherette seat bolsters with cloth insets and automatic headlight control. On the other hand, the Tucson Limited models will now get LED taillights as a standard.

Just like he previous model year Tucsons, the engines for MY2015 will be the same. Namely, they are the 2.0- and 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder units. They will be coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission as a standard and both will be optionally available with front- or all-wheel drive.

Other exclusive and standard features in the new 2015 Tucson are for instance the projector headlights with LED headlight accents, 17-inch alloy wheels, bodycolor rear spoiler with LED brake lights, remote keyless entry system with alarm, power windows, door locks, and mirrors, an AM/FM/SiriusXM®/CD/MP audio system with iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth hands-free phone system and tilt and telescoping steering wheel.

Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with wide range of safety features that come as a standard. Such are the advanced front, front-side impact and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors, four-wheel disc brakes and ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) with Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and active front head restraints.

2015 Hyundai Tucson is currently available in dealerships.

2015 Tucson Price Structure
Model	Engine	Transmission	Drivetrain	MSRP
GL S	2.0L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$21,500
GL S	2.0L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$23,000
SE	2.4L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$23,550
SE	2.4L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$25,050
SE	2.4L 4-Cylinder PZEV	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$25,050
Limited	2.4L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	FWD	$26,300
Limited	2.4L 4-Cylinder	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$27,800
Limited	2.4L 4-Cylinder PZEV	6-Speed Automatic SHIFTRONIC®	AWD	$27,800

Source: Hyundai

July 23, 2014

2015 GMC Canyon Is The Most Agile Pickup

2015 GMC Canyon is a midsize pickup which offers great maneuverability. This is probably the top reasons for the growing popularity of the vehicle among the customers in the United States. The new Canyon offers the right size for those looking for a more agile pickup. In this way the customers will enjoy the convenience of this smaller size mid-sized pickup’s ability to easily fit in a garage, travel downtown areas of big cities, and navigate crowded parking lots.

2015 GMC Canyon is the smaller sibling of the 1500 Sierra, 2500 and 3500 Sierra Heavy Duty pickups. The short-bed crew cab is 212.7 inches long, which is exactly 17 inches shorter than a comparable Sierra 1500. The width of the Canyon measures 74.3 inches which is five inches narrower than Sierra and two inches wider than the Terrain compact SUV.

However, the smaller size of the vehicle does not mean a compromise in terms of functionality or capability. 2015 Canyon has a tight turning radius of around 41 feet or 12.6 meters. This makes it easier for the driver to maneuver when parking or backing into tight spots. In addition, the electric power steering also provides help in maneuverability.

GMC Canyon is powered by four versatile and efficient engines: the standard 2.5L I-4 unit, the optional 3.6L and V6. The last two units feature direct injection, variable valve timing and six-speed transmissions. The most powerful in the engine range is the 2.5L Duramax Turbo-Diesel.

The 2015 GMC Canyon is scheduled to arrive in dealerships this fall.

	Length (in/cm)	Width (in/cm)
2015 Canyon short box crew 4×4, 3.6L V-6	212.7 / 5403	74.3 / 1886
2014 Sierra 1500 short bed crew 4×4, 5.3L V-8	229.5 / 5829	80.0 / 2032
2014 Ram 1500 short bed crew 4×4, 5.7L V-8	229.0	79.4
2014 Ford F-150 short bed crew 4×4. 5.0L V-8	231.9	79.2*
2015 Toyota Tundra short bed crew 4×4, 5.7L V-8	228.9	79.9

Source: GMC

July 22, 2014

Quant e-Sportlimousine Is Now Road Legal In Europe

Quant e-Sportlimousine concept with the nanoFLOWCELL drivetrain has been approved road legal for the European roads by TÜV Süd in Munich. Currently the team at nanoFLOWCELL AG together with its partners is working at top speed on the homologation of the Quant e-Sportlimousine Concept for series production. This is a historic moment for the company and the automotive world because for the first time flow-cell electric drive technology will appear on European roads. Fourteen years of hard development will be eventually put it into practice.

The concept vehicle has its premiere at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Now, after this approve, the automobile can be entered into detailed planning and development. This will enable nanoFLOWCELL AG to drive forward the wide range of possible applications and potential of the innovative drivetrain.

The concept car is powered by the nanoFLOWcell unit which is an anelectrolyte flow cell power system. It operates on the principles of the redox flowcell. The latter was developed in 1976 for NASA’s American space program.

The result is that the vehicle has a driving range of up to 600 km and it is powered exclusively by salt water. It produces over 912 horsepower (670 kW) and has a projected top speed of over 350 km/h. The acceleration time of the car from 0 to 100 km/h is measured at 2.8 seconds.

Source: NanoFLOWCELL AG

July 22, 2014

2016 Volkswagen Tiguan To Have Five And Seven-Seat Versions

The second generation 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan will arrive in two sizes – a five-seat and a seven-seat version. In addition, the German company is developing a petrol-electric hybrid of the model. The new version of Tiguan is currently undergoing durability testing in a prototype form. The second-gen midsized SUV will be shown in September next year during the Frankfurt Motor Show. The sales are scheduled to start in the beginning of 2016.

The initial Tiguan model will be based on the standard wheelbase that we are familiar with and have seen in the first generation version of the vehicle. It will measure length of 2605 mm and will feature two rows of seats that ca accommodate up to five occupants.

The second specification of the Tiguan will have a long wheelbase. In this way the car will deliver additional rear legroom as well as a third row of seats. This means that the long wheelbase Tiguan will accommodate up to seven persons.

While the five-seater will have a debut in Frankfurt, the seven-seater will have its premiere later in 2016 during the auto saloon in Detroit. It will be built specifically for the United States, Middle East and China. However, there are also plans to sell the SUV derivative in Europe.

Furthermore, the engines that will power the new Tiguan will be four-cylinder petrol and diesel. Volkswagen also disclosed that there will be also offered the option of 4Motion all-wheel drive next to the standard front-wheel drive. We expect to see the 1.4, 1.8 and 2.0 petrol units as well as the 1.6 and 2.0 diesel ones. There is also a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid engine which VW is currently developing.

Source: www.autocar.co.uk

July 22, 2014

Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe High Performance Support Vehicle [VIDEO]

Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe High Performance Support Vehicle has been built to support the Team Sky during Stage 20 of the 2014 Tour de France, when riders will traverse from Bergerac to Périgueux. Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe is the most dynamic and capable performance-focused production Jaguar ever built. It went on sale globally earlier this year. This current bespoke F-TYPE concept vehicle is based on the F-TYPE R Coupe and will be also driven by the 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine, which produces 550 horsepower (404 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft).

There are no current plans for a series production of this unique F-TYPE Coupe. This exciting version of the sports car will only support some of the Team Sky riders this Saturday on 26th of July during the time trial (TT).

The car is built in such way so that it can accommodate two of the team’s Pinarello Bolide TT bikes. The exterior of the car is finished in Team Sky’s livery, with colourways and other Team Sky graphic design cues.

The same can be also seen inside the car. Furthermore, other specifications feature a separate electric supply in the boot that delivers power to the radios, amplifiers, microphones, horns and televisions this supporting communications between Team Sky’s Sports Director and the rider.

Jaguar is the Official Supplier to Team Sky since 2010. Back in the victorious 2012 and 2013, the British engineering leaders supplied Team Sky with a fleet of performance Jaguar XF Sportbrakes.

httpv://youtu.be/LO9yfQAO57s

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

July 22, 2014

2015 Volvo XC90 To Feature Intellisafe Solutions

Volvo XC90 Intellisafe Solutions is designed to make tricky parking situations and maneuvering in tight spaces easier than before. Extended Park Assist Pilot is included in the IntelliSafe support technologies. It offers automatic reversing into a parking bay, entering and exiting a parallel parking spot. Furthermore, this new feature in the 2015 XC90 also displays digitally created bird’s-eye view of the 360° area around the car on the large centre screen. These options turn the potentially stressful parking situations into comfortable ones.

The updated Park Assist Pilot makes it easier for the drive parallel and bay parking by taking over. Then it operates the steering wheel while the driver is operating with the gearbox thus controlling the speed of the car.

While maneuvering, the new XC90 collects information from twelve ultrasonic sensors around the car. If the driver decides to activate the Park Assist Pilot in a parallel parking situation, then the sensors begin scanning the side of the car for empty parking slots.

If a parking slot is larger than 1.2 times car’s length, the person behind the steering wheel in notified via an audible signal and a message written on the instrument cluster. The same thing happens in a bay parking situation. However, the slot needs to be the width of the car plus 1 meter. Gradually the driver is guided by texts and animations on the display until the car is parked.

The next technology included is bird’s-eye view from above the car or the so called 360° Surround View. It delivers the driver an overview of the surrounding area from a point above the car.

This feature is enabled by four concealed fish-eye cameras. The first one is integrated into the front, the second and third – in each of the door mirrors and the last one – above the rear number plate.Thanks to these cameras, the driver also can get access to other views of the surrounding area like front, rear and side views.

IntelliSafe also features Cross Traffic Alert. This technology covers the driver’s back when reversing out of a parking space. It notifies the driver with an audible signal and a warning on the center screen when a car is in the vicinity of up to 30 meters on each side.

Source: Volvo

July 22, 2014

O.CT Tuning Gives More Horsepower To Dodge Challenger SRT8-700

O.CT Tuning Dodge Challenger SRT8-700 not only looks amazing but also has much power to be proud of. The tuners that are responsible for this conversion are settled in Austria and Switzerland, rather in the U.S. Namely, the company O.CT Oberscheider Tuning GmbH can show-off with enhancements of the many exclusive models of the brands Audi, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep.

To go further into details, O.CT Tuning has modified the output of the 6.4 liters engine of this Dodge Challenger SRT8. The tuning of the model includes an installation of compressor kit and a charge air cooler system. However, what has been done at first here is the individual software optimization. The result is a staggering increase of 88 horsepower.

Precisely, the software update has boosted the serial 476 horsepower (350 kW) of the Challenger SRT to the staggering 564 horsepower (415 kW). The original maximum torque of 637 Nm (470 lb-ft) has been uprated to the impressing 735 Nm (543 lb-ft).

OCT also offers over 600 horsepower boost of the engine for racing purposes. It is not an accident that this project carries the name “OCTSRT8-700”. Engine’s size on special customer’s Challengers has been enlarged up to 7.0 liters and, consequently has been equipped with a compressor. The end result is maximum output of 720 horsepower (530 kW) and 875 Nm (644 lb-ft) of optimum torque.

Source: O.CT Tuning

July 21, 2014

2015 Ford Mustang GT Gets Performance Pack

2015 Ford Mustang GT will get a performance pack next to the inherent fully independent front and rear suspension systems. The sixth-generation model has lighter body in comparison to the previous version. This was achieved via wide use of advanced technologies and materials such as hydroforming, laser welding and high-strength steels. For instance, lightweight aluminum was utilized for the hood and front fenders. This not only minimizes body mass but also enhances weight balance. The structure of the 2015 Mustang includes other components also made of aluminum that include rear suspension knuckles, rear axle housing on automatic transmission cars, rear control arms and rear brake calipers.

Every 2015 model of this muscle car includes new integral-link independent rear suspension. It has an architecture that is based on a lower control arm, integral link, upper camber link and a toe link. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings have all been specifically modified and tuned to deliver enhances mechanical grip for high-performance results. Furthermore, the new double-ball-joint front MacPherson strut system allows for larger, more powerful brakes without resorting to excessive wheel offsets that would hurt steering feel.

Three brake packages are available for the new Mustang. The first one is the Mustang V6 for the Mustang EcoBoost which adds two-piston, 43-millimeter floating calipers, 320- millimeter rotors, front; single-piston, 45-millimeter calipers, 320-millimeter rotors. The second one is the Mustang EcoBoost performance pack for the Mustang GT, which includes four-piston, 46-millimeter fixed calipers, 352-millimeter rotors, front; single-piston, 45-millimeter calipers, 330-millimeter rotors. And the last one is the Mustang GT performance pack. It adds six-piston, 36-millimeter Brembo calipers, 380-millimeter rotors, front; single-piston, 45-millimeter calipers, 330-millimeter rotors.

Ford is also offering the option of performance pack that can be added to the Mustang EcoBoost fastback and convertible or Mustang GT fastback. Both performance packs get retuned springs, bushings and monotube rear dampers, additional cooling capability for track-day durability, thicker rear sway bar, K-brace connecting strut towers, tuned ABS, electronic stability control and electric power-assisted steering and center gauge pack.

Specifically, the EcoBoost performance package features four-piston front brakes with 46-millimeter fixed aluminum calipers with 352-millimeter rotors. Single-piston rear brakes with 45-millimeter floating iron calipers with 330-millimeter rotors, 9×9-inch alloy wheels painted Ebony Black and fitted with Pirelli 255/40R19 Y-speed-rated tires.

Next, the 2015 Mustang GT performance package benefits from six-piston Brembo front brakes with 36-millimeter fixed aluminum calipers with 380-millimeter rotors, single-piston rear brakes with 45-millimeter floating iron calipers with 330-millimeter rotors. This enhanced Mustang rides on 19×9-inch Ebony Black painted alloy wheels with Pirelli 255/40R19 Y-speed-rated tires at the front, and 19×9.5-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli 275/40R19 Y-speed-rated tires at the rear. There is also a strut tower brace, 3.73:1 final drive ratio with Torsen differential as well as front splitter to channel cooling air to the front brakes.

Source: Ford

July 21, 2014

Dongfeng Nissan Introduces Venucia R30

Venucia is an entirely new brand which enters its fourth production model called R30 at the Chinese market. Venucia is a product of the Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company (DFL-PV). The R30’s development was based on Nissan’s global platform and will be specifically built for the Chinese market. R30 aims to attract buyers in terms of affordability and quality.

Its cockpit is generous: it has a wheelbase of 2450 mm and exterior dimensions of 3775 x 1665 x 1530 mm. The car is powered by the 1.2-liter HR12DE engine. It is powerful but at the same time has similar fuel consumption to most of its peers, which have 1.0-liter engines. Furthermore, the R30 is agile enough delivering a minimum turning radius of 4.5 m. In addition, it features a stable suspension and chassis.

Venucia R30 is based on the Micra model. It has been given brand new luxury dashboard, new steering wheel, console with instruments and different centre consol. Nevertheless, the circular AC vents and the basic layout are the same as Nissan’s model.

Furthermore, the car gets seats with integrated headrests, dual front airbags and a music system. The exterior silhouette of the R30 is similar to this of Mirca. However, there are some substantial changes done to the front and rear fascias.

The brand name Venucia is very special and its name is derived from the ancient Roman goddess “Venus”. Her functions encompassed love, beauty, fertility and prosperity. The five stars of the brand logo represent company’s five promises. They are the following: respect to customers, creation of value, always doing the best, achieving world-class quality and constantly seeking the dream.

Source: Nissan

July 21, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova