Automobiles Review

Author: Lidia Todorova

  • Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition Goes On Sale

    Volkswagen-Beetle-Cabriolet-Karmann-Edition-THUMBVolkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition has been shown in the beginning of June when it celebrated its world debut this year at the Auto Mobil International (AMI) in Leipzig. It is now ready to go on sale, with its very elegant design and packed with a lot of additional equipment. In terms of exterior the convertible can be distinguished by its electrically powered soft top in Sioux brown. It also has a cover in a matching color.

    Volkswagen is offering a total of seven exterior body colors to choose from. Moreover the exterior design of the car is complemented by “disc” type wheels in the size of 18 inch that are painted in Galvano Grey color. In the same color are also the door mirror caps. What indicate the exclusive special edition are of course the Karmann labels on the front wings.

    Beetle Cabriolet Karmann is based upon the “Design” trim level. Inside, the car features sports seats wrapped in Alcantara in Sioux brown with side inner bolsters. Futhermore, the interior adds a dashpad with “Beetle compartment” in a matt structured aluminium look. The pedals are also in aluminium.

    Next, the head restraints, leather steering wheel, gear shift lever and handbrake grip are all wrapped in leather and feature grey decorative stitching. What rounds out the package are the wind deflector and “ParkPilot” parking distance control.

    This Volkswagen special edition is a tribute to the Karmann coachwork makers. They have produced numerous Volkswagen cars from 1949 to 1980, from the Beetle Cabriolet and the Scirocco I and II through to the Golf Cabriolet.

    Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition driven by the 1.2l TSI engine with manual gearbox, produces 105 hp (77 kW) and has a starting price of €25,250.

    Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition
    Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition
    Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition
    Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet Karmann Edition

    Source: Volkswagen

  • 2014 Daihatsu Mira e:S Mini Gets Upgrades

    Daihatsu-Mira-eS-THUMB2014 Daihatsu Mira e:S Mini is getting some minor updates for the new model year. The passenger car achieves best fuel efficiency for a gasoline engine vehicle of 35.2 km/l and has jus been released nationwide. In fact, the Mira e:S has been announced the “third eco-friendly car” that delivers high fuel efficiency next to affordability. Thee latest refinements result exactly to improved fuel efficiency.

    The engine of the car has been updated and now offers higher compression ratio as well as the adoption of Atkinson cycle technology and a dual injector. The energy management evolves through the improvement of Eco Power Generation Control. This allows the car achieves fuel efficiency of 35.2 km/l, that us the best result for a gasoline engine vehicle.

    Furthermore, Daihatsu has added a new Black Interior Package. It comprises of full black-based interior, including black seat upholstery, 16 cm 4 door speakers, leather-bound steering wheel and audio panel.

    The enhancement of the e:S technology as mentioned results in great fuel efficiency. It is due to the adopting of three key evolutions: power train, vehicle, and energy management evolution. These major aspects of e:S technology, have resulted in improved combustion efficiency, reduced running resistance, and enhanced energy efficiency.

    First of all, the power train evolution offers improved combustion efficiency through a higher compression ratio. It has been increased from 11.3 to 12.2. In addition, Atkinson cycle technology and a dual injector have been adopted to avoid the knocking that accompanies a higher compression ratio.

    Next, vehicle’s evolution includes a tire deflector that has been added for the rear tires. It additionally reduces air resistance in the time of driving. And at last, the energy management has evolved through the adoption of Eco Power Generation Control, which reduces the engine load and delivers better fuel economy.

    Source: Daihatsu

  • Dubai Roadster Is The First Emirati-Built Supercar

    dubairoadster1-THUMBDubai Roadster is the first first Emirati-built supercar and in fact it is in its early stages of production. However, this fact does not stop the potential buyers that are already making orders. The majority of the future buyers come from Emirati. The vehicle will be available for sale in the beginning of next year at the Dubai Motor Show. The production plan so far is twenty-five examples and it literally begins from scratch.Some of the characteristics revealed so far about the Dubai Roadster are that it will have a tubular chassis, which will be combined with fibreglass and carbon-fibre panels. In addition, it will be driven by a 400 horsepower (294 kW) engine, and will effortlessly sprint from 0 to 100 kmh in 3.5 seconds.Furthermore, the supercar will undergo full crash testing. The team behind the creation of this car hopes that it will qualify for Euro 5 certification. This means that it will be legal to drive in the Emirates, or in other words – it will be a road car too.In the process of creating the car, the team decided to change the planned material for the chassis from aluminium to titanium. The latter is more expensive material but definitely stronger and in addition – lighter and more durable.By far, the engineers have completed initial welds on the vehicle, and have already sent them for testing in the US. These tests will guarantee that the welds will hold up under high speeds and pressures. After the tests are complete, they will ensure that the Roadster have a safety certification. The plan for the next two months is to make a fully welded chassis in Dubai.

  • Bugatti Veyron Successor To Produce 1500 Hybrid Horsepower

    bugatti-veyron-grand-sport-vitesse-black-bess-THUMBIt is a well known fact that Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is producing 1200 horsepower (882 kW). The French company is obviously not satisfied with this number, because it plans to build a model that will be a hybrid, and note – it will deliver around 1500 hp (1103 kW)! This amount of power will come through a 16-cylinder engine. Veyron’s two-door successor will be developed in 2015 and Bugatti disclosed that it plans to build around 450 examples from it. Most likely there will be 300 coupes and 150 roadsters.It is no surprise that the next Bugatti will be a hybrid. In fact, many other supersports car manufacturers like Ferrari, McLaren and Porsche have already gone through this step. So the “hybrid direction” seems like a logical next step for the brand. The 1500 hp won’t be the only advantage of the car. Lightweight construction is expected to be a key and logical feature as well.Other detail about the upcoming super car is that it will beat the 431 kilometres (268 miles) top speed of Veyron Super Sport. If you remember well, in February Veyron lost the title of the world’s fastest production car to the Hennessey Venom GT.Bugatti will end an era because it has scheduled to finish Veyron’s production within the next year. There are only around 20 build slots left for the 450-car run of the iconic vehicle, which are planned for the sixth and final Legend special edition.

    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess
    Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess

  • Kahn And Evanta Collaboration Results in a Flying Huntsman and Barchetta

    Ant_Kahn_production_vehicles-THUMBA. Kahn Design has teamed up with Evanta. The name of the newly formed team will be Ant-Kahn and they already have number of projects underway. The result of their collaborative partnership will be a hot-rod Defender and a custom Barchetta. Of course, the focus is on luxury and quality, which will be achieved via modern prototyping and manufacturing technology. At the same time both companies will also focus on the details that are associated with traditional coach building.

    Afzal Kahn has revealed that they are already working on their future plans that aim to extend from coach-building to manufacturing series motor vehicles. He promises that number of models will come to fruition in the coming weeks and months.

    Ant Anstead on the other hand stated that both British companies will be dedicated to continue building upon the historical excellence of British vehicle manufacture. For him the most important is to step upon and develop the traditions of hand finished coach building.

    In the forthcoming months, Ant-Kahn plans to introduce the “Flying Huntsman” vehicle, which is a new take on the classic Land Rover Defender. If you remember, we have already seen this concept car in a sketch form. It will probably include the 6.2 litre V8 powerhouse coupled with a six speed electronic gearbox and will produce around 550 horsepower (404 kW).

    After the production of the Huntsman, there will be a release of an Ant-Kahn original. This will be a retro-styled Barchetta that is scheduled to officially debut at the Goodwood Revival motor show. The third car planned to be built is a completely restyled Aston Martin WB12, which will be shown later this year.

    Source: A. Kahn Design

  • Skoda Adds Fabia Special Edition To Its Line-up

    skoda-fabia-se-THUMB2014 Skoda Fabia Special Edition has just gone on sale. The lucky ones to buy the car will get a wide range of extra standard equipment at no cost. The new model has some design optimizations and redefined proportions. It is slightly wider and lower, or in other words it is very compact car perfect for urban utilization. For the creation of this model, Skoda has used its latest design language that was established by the Vision D car. The latter was introduced in 2011 during the Geneva Motor Show.

    2014 Fabia Special Edition gets most of the Vision D and features new wide front grille, angular headlights and LED tail-lamps, but it keeps the C-pillar from its predecessor. The car is undoubtedly recognisable part of the range but it is also more expressive.

    It will be powered by company’s popular 1.2-litre petrol engine, which produces 69 hp (51 kW). The car will be offered in any of the Fabia’s full range of colours, including metallic paint option. As a standard, the car will run on 15-inch alloy wheels. At last, over the standard production Fabia, this special edition will also get extra rear speakers, manual air conditioning, tinted glass, electric door mirrors and remote central locking.

    Source: Skoda

  • 2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC Gets New Diesel Engine

    2014-Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-THUMB2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC will be more powerful on the road thanks to its new and refined 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine. The Astra GTC is the latest model which will take the advantage of getting the more economical new unit, which was at first introduced in the Astra, Meriva and Zafira Tourer. In fact, Vauxhall has announced that due to the introduction of this powerplant, there will be a cessation of the 1.7 CDTi.

    Precisely, the ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine produces 136 horsepower (100 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with an improved six-speed manual transmission, which ensures that the refinement and economy of the unit matches its performance.

    Astra GTC will be available for the MY2014 in three trim levels: Sport, Limited Edition and Sri Trims. They will be all equipped with Start/Stop and with a braking energy recuperation system as standard. The result is that the GTC 1.6 CDTi will deliver fuel efficiency of up to 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 104g/km and 109g/km.

    The engine is also Euro 6-compliant, and Vauxhall states that this is one of the engines best in its class for noise and vibration. This is due to the efficient combustion process with multiple injection, re-designed components and the utilization of acoustic covers.

    2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC
    2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC

    Source: Vauxhall

  • DMC Teases Lamborghini Huracan Affari

    DMC-Lamborghini-Huracan-Affari-THUMBThe first photos of DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari have just leaked. They show more details on the upcoming DMC LP630 Huracan, dubbed as Affari. This is an Italian word and means affair, and obviously the tuners don’t have anything against having one with this Lambo. DMC also noted that the internal project code is “STAGE-H1”. With this name they make a reference to their Aventador kits, so we must expect a thorough transformation of this supercar.

    What we can see from these photos is that the Affari is getting a wide range of aero components. The front bumper for instance has received new tunnels. In fact, they seem to be sliced by aggressive center swords. Additionally, here is also where is featured a set of elegant front lips that deliver additional down-force and enhance the visual appearance of the car.

    Furthermore, there have been also added side-skirts that contribute to the unique appearance of the Lamborghini. What is more, they play an important role in the aerodynamics of the car. At the rear, we can see a new rear wing, a base spoiler and a redesigned diffuser set-up. Most of the parts in this project will be made of nothing else but dry carbon fiber.

    Another worth mentioning announcement that DMC have made about this project is that the Huracan will get ECU programming. So this means that we can expect from the Affari to produce far more than 610 PS (448 kW) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.

    The power will be transmitted onto the road via new set of forged alloy wheels. Their dimensions are 20×8,5” at the front, wile the rear are fitted the 21×12”. DMC will be using a 245/30r20 and 325/25r21 tyres for the front and rear respectively.

    DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan LP630-4 Affari 05
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan LP630-4 Affari 05
    DMC Lamborghini Huracan LP630-4 Affari 05

    Source: DMC

  • Mitsubishi Confirms Production Of 2015 Lancer Evolution

    2015-Mitsubishi-Lancer-Evolution-MR-thuMbThe legendary Mitsubishi Motors Lancer Evolution sports sedan will continue to be present on the US market during 2015 model year. For the GSR trim level there is a host of new amenities packages, while the MR edition will get more standard features. All models are to be equipped with new heated side view mirrors with turn indicators and drop cup holder with lid at no cost. In particular, the GSR will add new Premium Package that includes Sight and Sound Package, leather seating, power glass sunroof, heated front seats, sound dampening enhancement and piano-black front console box with lids. On the other hand, the MR model will get the nine speaker 710-watt Rockford Fosgate premium sound system.

    The top of the line MR trim will also be equipped with FAST-key entry system, auto dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, auto on/off headlights, color-keyed heat extractor vents, bright radiator front grille and beltline molding, sound dampening enhancement and like the GRS will feature the piano-black front console box with lids

    Other standard features that were previously available include the FUSE Hands-Free Link System, automatic climate control, leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and aerodynamically-enhancing rear diffuser. What differentiates the GRS from the MR is that the first one gets as a standard a pronounced rear deck lid spoiler, while the second one – a lower-profile rear lip spoiler.

    Under the hood of every Evo sleeps the turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 2.0-liter engine. It will be responsible for the 291 horsepower (214 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a full 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque starting at 4,000 rpm. At the rear of the transversely-mounted engine there are mounted stainless steel exhaust manifold and turbocharger.

    The GRS will get the five-speed manual transmission, while the MR – the advanced 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST). The latter offers three automatic drive modes: “Normal”, “Sport” and “S-Sport”. While the “Normal” mode delivers nothing exceptional, the “Sport” mode contributes for quicker shifting and the “S-Sport” – for the ultimate race-bred driving.

    Furthermore, the 2015 Lancer Evolution will get the S-AWC. This abbreviation stands for Super All-Wheel Control. Mitsubishi states that this is one of the most sophisticated all-wheel drive systems ever developed for a production car. There are three selectable traction mode settings: “Tarmac” “Gravel” and “Snow”. They will provide maximum tractability and performance in accordance to the weather and road conditions.

    The S-AWC also includes various high-tech components and systems that also aid agility. Such are the Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sport Anti-lock Braking (ABS).

    The new Mitsubishi model will also get inverted MacPherson struts up front with a multilink design at the rear and suspension control arms composed of aluminum. In addition, the Brembo braking system will deliver the perfect deceleration. It features 4-piston calipers with 13.8-inch diameter rotors at the front and 2-piston calipers with 13.0-inch diameter rotors at the rear, 4-channel Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

    MR trim will benefit from increased performance thanks to the lightweight two-piece Brembo brake rotors at the front. They save 2.9 lbs. of unsprung weight at each wheel. Additionally, they are accompanied by Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs. The power of Lancer Evolution will be transmitted on the road via the 18 x 8.5-inch wheels coupled with high-grip 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires.

    In terms of safety features and technologies, the Lancer Evo benefits from Mitsubishi’s next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE), Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), supplemental restraint system (SRS) with seven air bags, including knee and seat-mounted side-impact air bags.

    2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
    2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
    2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR
    2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • 2014 Callaway Chevrolet Corvette Gets Torque Update [627 HP; 827 Nm]

    2014-callaway-corvette-005-THUMBThe last time we have heard about 2014 Callaway Chevrolet Corvette Callaway it produced the astonishing 620 horsepower (456 kW) and 810 Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. These figures obviously weren’t enough for the tuners and engineers at Callaway so they have opted for a toque update. After vehicle testing and validation, the vehicle has been rated at 627 horsepower (461 kW) at 6400 rpm and 827 Nm (610 lb-ft) at 4400 rpm of torque. In other words over the stock Corvette baseline the increase is exactly 167 hp (123 kW) and 196 Nm (145 lb-ft).

    The graphic below illustrates the increase in power due to Callaway‘s new supercharger design and single acoustic chamber exhaust system. The horsepower increases gradually from idle to maximum engine speed, thus avoiding peaking at 6000 rpm. You can also see a broad torque curve with output of more than 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) at only 2200 rpm.

    Callaway’s supercharger system features intake manifold design with new intercooler design, and a 2300cc high helix angle as well as four-lobe rotor pack. In fact, the tuners have developed the long-runner manifold to enhance the mid-range torque. The result ism 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) more than last year’s Callaway Corvette.

    The intercooler system features three discrete liquid-to-air cooling elements, thus providing great inlet air cooling efficiency. In addition, the extended supercharger housing, convective heat transfer yields additional reduction of inlet air temperature. This provides more oxygen for the volume of air and at the same time enhances the power and helps prevent engine-damaging detonation.

    Source: Callaway

  • Seat Celebrates 30th Anniversary Of Ibiza Model

    Seat-Ibiza-30th-Anniversary-Special-Edition-THUMBSeat 30th Anniversary Ibiza Special Edition is a very special vehicle, with which Seat celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Ibiza. This special limited edition pays homage to the most popular and best-selling model of the company. The first example of the Ibiza was unveiled in 1984 at the Paris Motor Show and since then it has become a Spanish icon. In fact, for the last three decades there have been four generations of the model. They were all characterized by youthful and dynamic nature, as well as excellent performance.

    30th Anniversary Special Edition is based on the three-door SC body. What makes the car different from the other models in the Ibiza range is the Balea Beige Paint. The vehicle will be also offered Technic Grey and Emocion Red.

    Furthermore, this limited edition Seat also benefits from front xenon headlights, rear LED clusters, 17 inch black alloy wheels, black wing mirror housings and front grille in the same color, as well as commemorative logo positioned on the B pillar and on the rear windscreen.

    The highlights throughout the interior of the car feature a rear view parking camera, Alcantara upholstery with beige stitching, gearknob and hand brake with the same color for the stitching, leather steering wheel, the SEAT Portable System and customized key cover as well as floor mats.

    Seat Ibiza 30th Anniversary Special Edition
    Seat Ibiza 30th Anniversary Special Edition
    Seat Ibiza 30th Anniversary Special Edition

    Source: Seat

  • Shelby Auctions Serial #1 Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT

    Shelby Auctions Serial #1 Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT Shelby American has announced that it will auction serial number one of the Barrett-Jackson Edition Shelby GT. This will happen at this year’s Barrett-Jackson Reno-Tahoe auction, which will take place between 31st of July and 2nd of August in Reno, Nevada. The vehicle is an emblematic convertible muscle car that comes in black livery accented with red stripes. In particular, the sale of the car will happen on 1st of August in front of international audience. The car was made in 2008 and by Shelby, Barrett-Jackson and Ford, and the production of the vehicles was limited up to 100 units. They were badged and carry specific serial numbers, showing their uniqueness.

    As a matter of fact, the convertible was the first prototype for the Barrett-Jackson series Ford Shelby GT. It hides under its hood 4.6 liter Mustang GT engine, which in addition was refined. As a result it produces 319 hp (235 kW) with 447 Nm (330 lb-ft) of torque.

    The musclecar also includes an upgraded suspension. In other words this means that it features special springs, dampers, sway bars and 3.55 to 1 gear ratio rear end. Furthermore, the vehicle also features a Hurst shifter, hood scoop, hood pins, side scoops and special badging.

    A billet grill with Mustang pony, light bars on the convertibles and a Shaker 1000 stereo system are also there. Another interesting fact about the car that makes it even rarer is that it is the first of only ten convertibles equipped with manual transmission.

    Source: Shelby American