Lidia Todorova – Page 164 – Automobiles Review

2015 Honda Spirior To Be Launched In China

Honda Spirior Concept was introduced in April at the autoshow in Beijing. The car is currently prepared in production form and is to debut the Chinese market at the Guangzhou Auto Show in the beginning of December. 2015 Spirior model is to be based on the firstly introduced 2009 model. It targets the younger customers, specifically those who live in urban areas. The new Spirior will offer enhancements in terms of exterior design, dynamic performance and technologies. It will also include many safety features.

In North America, Spirior is known as Acura TSX, while in Europe and Japan – as the eight generation Honda Accord. In China, the car will be powered by the 2.0 liter and 2.4 liter four-cylinder petrol engines. The powertrains will be mated as a standard with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, while an eight speed DCT will be probably the optional variant.

The 2.4 liter engine will deliver to its future customers 201 horsepower (148 kW). There is a rumor of another engine in the range – the 3.5 liter V6 one, which develops 280 horsepower (206 kW).

2015 Honda Spirior has bold lines and a wide, powerful stance. It will come equipped with a standard Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights and a glass moonroof, and will run on 17-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels. Optional are the split 5-spoke 18-inch aluminum wheels. More details to be announced near official launch.

Source: Honda

June 2, 2014

Toyota Makes Next Steps In Hybrid Power

Toyota is undertaking significant developments in the laboratory and on the race track. The aim – to make next steps in the evolution of hybrid power, which will be utilized in hybrid vehicles such as Prius and Camry. The company is targeting improvements in performance and fuel efficiency. The first step has been already made with the announcement of new generation of computer chips that have the potential to boost the fuel efficiency by 10 per cent. At the same time they also significantly reduce the size of the crucial power control unit (PCU).

Toyota Racing division which is positioned in Germany focuses on practicing the hybrid know-how. This is made via its participation in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) sports-car racing, and will also be implemented in next month’s Le Mans 24-hour classic.

The hybrid technology of the all-wheel-drive TS040 Hybrid race car, harvests more braking energy that can be stored and utilized under acceleration. This of course results in additional power boost. If we compare the new hybrid with last year’s race car, the maximum power of the TS040 Hybrid has been improved more than 18 per cent. In addition, the fuel consumption has been cut by 25 per cent.

TS040 Hybrid made two victories in the two WEC races held this year. This also serves as a real-life test bench for Toyota’s latest hybrid concepts. The knowledge gained from the motorsport program and Toyota’s on-going research and development has already been utilized to enhance the company’s hybrid road cars. Since the launch of the first Prius in 1997, more than six million cars were sold around the globe.

The latest laboratory achievement of Toyota’s includes new silicon carbide computer chips (power semi-conductors) that are more efficient than today’s chips made from silicon alone. They were designed to be used in the PCU of hybrid vehicles, thus enabling the company to improve fuel efficiency by up to 10 per cent while also reducing PCU size by up to 80 per cent.

Precisely, the silicon carbide chips will undergo on-road testing in Japan within a year. They reduce the amount of current lost as heat, and switch the current flow on and off more efficiently. The result is the reduced size of the coil and capacitor, which account for approximately 40 per cent of the size of the PCU.

PCU in hybrid vehicles delivers electric power from the battery to the motor in order to control vehicle’s speed. It also sends electricity generated through deceleration to the battery for storage. Nearly 20 per cent of the total power loss in hybrid vehicles is associated with the power semiconductors alone. This shows a need for an improvement of the semi-conductor in order to improve efficiency.

Source: Toyota

June 2, 2014

Lexus Confirms RC 350 And RC F For Australia

Lexus is currently introducing RC 350 coupe and the fire-breathing RC F performance coupe for the Australian market. Both vehicles are due for launch by the end of this year of in early 2015. They have been purpose-built in order to deliver excellent design and perfect driving dynamics. For Australia, the RC 350 will be equipped with an all-alloy direct and port-injected 3.5-litre V6 engine, which produces 318 horsepower (234 kW) and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). The unit is coupled with an eight-speed sequential transmission. RC 350 will put all this power to the ground via the rear wheels.

On the other hand, the RC F will be powered by the naturally aspirated five-litre V8 powerplant. It develops 450 horsepower (330 kW) and 520Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque. It can also switch between Atkinson and Otto cycles for better fuel economy.

The engine is managed by a specifically tuned eight-speed Sports Direct Shift (SPDS) transmission. It enhances the linear response to accelerator-pedal operation, letting the driver better feel the torque and power as it is applied.

In addition, the RC F features a host of unique engineering and design elements which ensures its powerful performance. The race-bred development of the model includes a chassis, suspension, aerodynamic measures, wheel and tyre package along with a host of other engineering changes.

Lexus model:	RC 350	RC F
Power (kW)	234	Over 330
Torque (Nm)	380	Over 520
Seating capacity	4	4
Overall length (mm)	4,695	4,695
Width (mm)	1,840	1,840
Height (mm)	1,395	1,395
Wheelbase (mm)	2,730	2,730
Driven wheels	Rear wheel drive	Rear wheel drive

Source: Lexus

June 2, 2014

Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Evolution Vision Gran Turismo [VIDEO]

Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV Evolution Vision Gran Turismo is the third car which is to be featured in PlayStation3’s Gran Turismo 6 game. The previous models that we have covered in our blog are the Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo and the BMW Vision Gran Turismo. The vehicle presented here is a hybrid concept that is built on Mitsubishi’s racing knowledge gained through races like the Dakar Rally and World Rally Championships (WRC).

In the development of the exterior, the company has used as an inspiration the Mitsubishi Concept XR-PHEV. The latter has debuted at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. However, this virtual car adds iconic front grill and aggressive racing-related exterior styling, which Mitsublish promises to feature in its next vehicles.

In addition, the concept vehicle utilizes advanced development technology from the Plug-in Hybrid EV System. The power of the engine is transmitted through an eight speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). Its driving performance is controlled with the S-AWC vehicle dynamics control system that distributes the drive force to the 4 wheels.

The weight of the car has been maximized through the use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). This contributes to vehicle’s superb agility. In addition, the downforce produced by the aerodynamic form of the front and rear diffusers delivers excellent cornering performance. The car runs on large diameter 20 inch aluminum wheels and has tough suspension system.

The project Vision Gran Turismo involves world’s leading brands, which develop concept cars for Gran Turismo and its fans. Stay tuned, because more exciting models are to be revealed soon!

httpv://youtu.be/jJ3Csee5ElI

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mitsubishi

May 31, 2014

2014 Scion xB Brings Together Function And Form

2014 Scion xB has distinctive appearance and blends function and form. It is one of the most recognizable members of company’s family of vehicles. Like its little sibling – the 2014 Scion iQ, it is currently going on sale, offering its unmistakable boxy style and spacious interior. The latter now comes standard with 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen Scion Display Audio System. The car also offers smooth ride and responsive handling. It is equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 158 horsepower (116 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque.

The unit can be mated with either a five-speed manual transmission or the four-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) constantly adjusts to suit driving conditions. The EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of the xB is 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

2014 xB sits on a MacPherson strut front suspension with stabilizer bar and a torsion beam rear suspension. A set of 16-inch wheels are standard for the vehicle, while Scion is offering a choice of 16-inch and 17-inch alloy wheels.

In terms of exterior, the straight roofline extends straight back to the rear fascia. The latter is dominated by an expansive rear window with privacy glass. At the back, there is also a chrome-tipped exhaust and bold tail lights.

The front fascia also features halogen projector-beam headlights and standard LED accent lamps, as well as LED turn indicators built into powered outside mirrors. The colors offered for the MY2014 are Black Sand Pearl, Nautical Blue Metallic, Sizzling Crimson Mica, Army Rock Metallic, Absolutely Red, Classic Silver Metallic and Super White.

The spacious interior of the xB can accommodate up to five people. Clean lines and metallic accents define the design inside. The three-spoke steering wheel features audio controls, while the gauges and deep orange multi-information display sit centered on the metal-tone accented dash. Other standard equipment here includes remote keyless entry, power windows with driver side auto down and electric power steering.

As mentioned, the Standard Display Audio system features a 6.1 inch LCD touchscreen. Other technology components include Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming connectivity, HD Radio, USB connectivity and 160-watt Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit. As an option, the company is offering the BeSpoke Audio system.

Safety features include six airbags, headrests and three-point seat belts, tire pressure monitoring system, as well as STAR Safety SystemTM which includes Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

2014 Scion xB has a starting price of $16,970 USD.

Source: Scion

May 31, 2014

2014 Scion iQ Can Take Any Urban Challenge

2014 Scion iQ is world’s smallest four-seater. The micro subcompact car is currently going on sale fitted with wide range of standard ad available features. It is powered by the 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which develops 94 horsepower (70 kW). The unit is coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps with engine deliver an enhanced efficiency and produce lower emissions. In addition, its light curb weight of 2,127 pounds, adds to the achievement of fuel economy rating of 36 mpg city, 37 mpg highway and 37 mpg combined.

2014 iQ has a compact front-mounted differential, a high-mount electric power steering rack, and a compact air-conditioning unit. A flat gas tank beneath the floor reduces rear overhang. The result is a length of 120.1 inches, width of 66.1 inches and a 78.7-inch wheelbase.

The exterior of the car is defined by its trapezoidal lines, broad stance and wide rear bumper. The front fascia includes a disctinctive front grille and projector beam headlamps, while the side mirrors with integrated turn signals add highlights to the clean design.

As a standard, customers can enjoy a keyless entry as well as electronic rear hatch locking system. Drivers have the option of 5-spoke or 7-spoke wheel covers. For 2014, color options include Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Hot Lava, Pacific Blue Metallic, Black Currant Metallic and a two-tone option comprised of Black Currant Metallic and Classic Silver Metallic.

Inside, this Scion offers enough space without sacrificing features or comfort. An acoustic windshield reduces road noises and vibrations, a deep orange instrument panel puts information easily within eyesight, Scion Drive Monitor displays information like temperature, average MPG and the ECO-drive indicator helps the driver maximize car’s fuel efficiency.

On the steering wheel, one can find audio controls. The Standard Display Audio system comes with a 6.1 inch LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming connectivity, HD RadioTM, USB connectivity and steering-wheel audio controls. As an option, there is the BeSpoke Audio system, which features push-to-talk voice navigation and geo-located points of interest.

Standard safety features include 11 standard airbags, Star Safety SystemTM with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). A tire-pressure monitoring system also comes as a standard.

2014 Scion iQ has a starting price of $15,665 USD.

Source: Scion

May 31, 2014

Cosworth Reveals FA20 Power Package

Cosworth FA20 Power Package is here. Through its introduction the company deliberately moves on from individual component supply towards fully validated system packages. The current upgrade is suitable on for Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86. Cosworth’s Power Packages will offer motorsport enthusiasts the ease and reliability of power upgrades. The development of FA20 is inspired by Formula One and sports car racing, and the result is a peak performance of up to 380 horsepower (280 kW). There are several stages of the upgrade, each of which builds upon and uses components in the previous Stage.

Stage 1 Power Package offers a power increase of up to 230 hp (170 kW). It features Cosworth free flow sports exhaust, a “Power by Cosworth” calibration kit, an exclusive vehicle badge and a uniquely numbered authentication plaque with the name of the tuning company, performance filtration solution and low temperature thermostat.

All of the components mentioned work together as a solution, rather than a collection of individual parts. They maximize peak performance and reliability. For example, tuning company’s free flow sports exhaust features two 4” diagonally cut, branded, double wall tips and a stylish “Y” shaped back muffler/silencer.

In combination with the other components, this stainless steel exhaust increases the power output to 220 hp (162 kW). By adding the optional combined overpipe front pipe, which has a spherical resonator, the new calibration power output is raised to 225 hp (165 kW). At last, the black manifold header has equal length piping and CNC machined exhaust flanges, not only helps to significantly reduce under hood/bonnet temperatures, but also boosts the output up to 230 hp (170 kW).

Source: Cosworth

May 31, 2014

2015 Hyundai Grandeur Sedan Debuts In South Korea

2015 Hyundai Grandeur Sedan was just introduced in South Korea at the 2014 Busan International Motor Show. The model has received an upgraded powertrain and some aesthetic enhancements. The flagship premium is scheduled to debut in Korea later this year. The upgraded Grandeur is equipped with company’s 2.2-liter R diesel engine. The unit features for the first time Variable Geometry Turbocharger. This newly adopted power plant generates 202 hp (149 kW).

In addition, Grandeur Sedan will also benefit from the Theta II 2.4-liter GDI petrol engine. It delivers 190 hp and includes improvements to the motor-driven power steering system that result in a greater handling responsiveness and stability.

The exterior of this Hyundai model was also updated and includes redesigned front and rear styling, as well as enhanced audio equipment. Furthermore, the 2015 Grandeur is 10 millimeters longer than the outgoing model. Stylish new grille and front bumper complement the LED fog lamps, while at the rear we have a high-gloss two-tone rear bumper design.

The cabin has received a remodeled central fascia with the latest Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) controls, as well as a new 8-inch navigation screen. All this comes as a standard.

In terms of safety, there are several added features such as Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Front Collision Warning System (FCWS), and Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) features secure drivers’ safety, Advanced Smart Parking Assist System (ASPAS) and Smart Trunk.

Source: Hyundai

May 30, 2014

Audi A3 To Get 1.4 TFSI ultra Engine

Audi A3 1.4 TFSI ultra is a sport economy expert. In fact, ten new ultra models extend the range to 22 ultra production cars. Audi also plans to make the Audi A3 1.6 TDI ultra as sedan version. The company is extending its range of the fuel-efficient low-emission ultra models in the A3 car line. They will come equipped with the 150 hp (110 kW) 1.4 TFSI engine, thus offering high performance with exemplary economy.

The top speed in electronically limited up to 220 km/h (137 mph) which the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is estimated at just 8.1 seconds. On the other hand, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are rated at 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (50.0 mpg) on the combined cycle and 109 g/km (175.4 g/mi), respectively.

1.4 liter TFSI can be mated to either a manual six speed transmission or a seven speed S tronic. The power unit with cylinder is also available in all four body versions of the A3 car line: the three door model, five door Sportback, Sedan and as a Cabriolet.

A3 ultra version can be also equipped with the 1.6 TDI engine. This power unit has already been introduced to the three door version and the Sportback. In the future, Audi A3 Sedan can likewise be outfitted with this 110 hp (81 kW). It also shows incredibly low fuel consumption and emission numbers, rated at 3.3 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (71.3 mpg) and 88 grams of CO2 per kilometer (141.6 g/mi).

Source: Audi

May 30, 2014

Subaru Introduces 2015 BRZ Series Blue Special Edition

2015 Subaru BRZ Series Blue is the special edition version of the acclaimed purist sports car. The model will be produced in limited run of only 1000 examples exclusively for the United States. This BRZ embodies an exclusive combination of STI functional aerodynamic body design, black-painted STI 17-inch wheels and unique interior trim. What is more, Subaru announced that it will offer 500 numbers of the car painted WR Blue Pearl and 500 in Crystal White Pearl. The special edition will arrive in dealerships in July.

BRZ Series Blue is driven by 200 horsepower (147 kW) 2.0-liter BOXER engine. It features low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering. A boosts in car’s aerodynamic performance is achieved via the black STI front, side, and side-rear under spoilers, which contribute to additional front downforce.

Furthermore, the additional underbody panels reduce the coefficient of drag (Cd) from 0.28 to 0.27. Larger stainless steel exhaust tips and a new shark fin antenna are also included. Red-finish brake calipers can be seen behind the spokes of the black painted STI wheels, which emphasize BRZ’s pure sports nature.

This special edition vehicle is built on the BRZ Limited model but features exclusive trim and special details throughout. Inside, its leather and Alcantara upholstery includes blue leather seat bolsters and head restraints. Blue stitching highlights the seats and the blue and black leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as the shift lever boot and leather-wrapped parking brake handle.

The same blue motif can also be seen on the center console kneepads and door trim that are further accentuated by an embroidered silver BRZ logo on the front seatbacks. Carpeted floor mats with BRZ logo and blue stitching, frameless day/night rear-view mirror and simulated carbon fiber center dash panel, red illuminated engine start/stop button with an STI logo round out the special interior treatment.

Pricing of 2015 Subaru BRZ Range:

Model/Trim	Transmission	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
BRZ Premium	6MT	$25,695	$26,490
BRZ Limited	6MT	$27,695	$28,490
BRZ Limited	6AT	$28,795	$29,590
BRZ Series.Blue	6MT	$29,490	$30,285

Source: Subaru

May 30, 2014

Kahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara Chelsea Truck Company CJ300 LE

Kahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara Chelsea Truck Company CJ300 LE is tuning company’s newest project. It takes inspiration from that iconic military heritage and translates it into contemporary urban language. This off-roader is powered by 2.8 l diesel engine that produces 197 horsepower (145 kW). It is regarded as one of the most recognisable 4×4 vehicles ever produced. The specialists at A. Kahn Design has separated the Wrangler from its standard siblings through some exclusive touches.

First of all, the volcanic bronze silhouette of the car was competed with 7.5 x 17″ Jeep 1941 wheels in satin black, as well as brake callipers finished in liquid gold, four slot Chelsea Truck Company grille, front grille industrial mesh, privacy glass, smoked headlamps and Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover.

Inside, Kahn Jeep Wrangler CJ300 LE showcases a softer and fashionable interior. The cabin literally wrapped in front and rear quilted and perforated seats with matching stitching, Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover, armrests re-upholstered in quilted and perforated leather, re-upholstered centre glove box, floor mats and a steering wheel that feels great in the hands.

In other words, this vehicle not only has all of the credentials typical for the off-roaders but also delivers luxury inside and out that can be compared to high-class urban cars.

Source: A. Kahn Design

May 30, 2014

2014 Citroen DS3 Hatch And Cabrio Facelift Revealed

2014 Citroen DS3 and DS3 Cabrio models are getting upgraded via a range of enhancements, but the most important one is the adoption of the new high-tech light signature. The two variants of the car are also receiving brand new Active City Brake technology, range of Euro6-compliant engines and additional personalization features. The new hypnotic gaze of the facelifted DS 3 is due to its new headlights, which feature the combination of LED and Xenon lightning technologies with new sequential indicators.

The new headlights deliver greater visibility in both low- and high-beam positions. To go further into details, three LED modules and a Xenon module were utilized for the design of this wide and uniform beam.

What is more, the headlights also minimize the energy consumption by 35% when they operate in low-beam mode and by 75% – in high-beam. They are capable of life time of over 20,000 hours, or in other words – twenty times longer than halogen lights.

Citroen disclosed that the new headlights were inspired by the Numéro 9 and Wild Rubis concept cars. They include independent modules, which resemble diamonds in their setting. The DS 3 has also been fitted with innovative sequential indicators.

The LED DRLs in the front air intakes completes the new light signature. Facelifted DS3 models also feature 3D-effect LED rear lights and chrome-finish DS logo in a black embossed DS setting.

Source: Citroen

May 29, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova