Lidia Todorova – Page 165 – Automobiles Review

2014 Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4Matic

2014 Vorsteiner Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4Matic effortlessly shows its powerful presence on the road. The tuning company based in California enhanced the sporty appearance of this E63 AMG S model with a new suspension and set of beautiful wheels. The outgoing Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is the second version of the W220 E-class. At first, it was launched in 2009 with a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 engine.

Two years later, the German luxury company changed the powerplant to a 518 hp (380 kW) 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8, which in addition was available with an optional Performance package that upgraded the power to 550 hp (405 kW).

For this year, Mercedes-Benz updated the engine again. As a standard engine, the car got the 5.5 liter twin-turbo V8 with 550 hp (405 kW) and 719 Nm (531 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The S version, enhanced with the AMG Performance Package, is capable of the remarkable 577 hp (425 kW) and 754 Nm (556 lb-ft).

The additional 26 horsepower were achieved via tweaks to the engine-management system as well as increased peak injection pressure and boost pressure. In other words, this is the most horsepower that the E63 has ever gotten.

The top speed in the S model was also raised and is now up to 186 mph (300 km/h) in comparison to the standard 155 mph (250 km/h). The acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at 3.6 seconds.

And this powerful basis was used by Vorsteiner. The tuners have given this unique model a set of Sport Challenge Forged Edition VSC-101 wheels finished in Gloss Brushed Shadow. E63 AMG features an electronically controlled adaptive sport suspension, which allows the ride height to descend effortlessly.

This showcases the custom 20” forged monoblock wheels. Precisely, at the front they measure 20×8.5”, while at the rear – 20×10”. Of course, they were fitted with the appropriate Hankook Ventus V12 Evo tyres in the size of 255/30/20 and 295/25/20 at the front and rear, respectively.

Source: Vorsteiner

May 29, 2014

2015 Nissan Versa Note Gets SR And SL Trims

2015 Nissan Versa Note is the companion vehicle to the popular Versa sedan, which was introduced in April at the New York International Auto Show. Versa Note has the characteristic of a 5-door hatchback and shares its advanced platform and drivetrain with the Versa sedan. However, the hatch carries its own distinctive look. As a matter of fact, the model enters its second year of production with a number of significant enhancements. There are two new trim levels – SR and SL added to the previous three – S, S Plus and SV.

All five trims will be equipped with the 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC). The Versa Note S will feature a 5-speed manual transmission, while the S Plus, SV, SR and SL models will get the Xtronic transmission.

The exterior styling of the car is energetic and features steeply sloped windshield and sculpted body panels. Smart packaging and ample cargo space are ensured by the available Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor. In addition, there is also a long list of available features such as: NissanConnectSM, Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, heated front seats and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

One of the new variants of the model – the 2015 Versa Note SR offers a number of unique exterior and interior treatments. They include sporty front and rear fascias and grille, dark headlight surrounds, fog lights, rear spoiler, suede-like seats and 16-inch sport aluminum-alloy wheels.

The second one – the Note SL features a range of special equipment as a standard. Precisely, here is included the NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch color display, RearView Monitor, heated front seats, Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

2015 Nissan Versa Note hatchback is currently on sale in dealerships across the United States. Detailed pricing is listed below.

2015 Nissan Versa Note pricing:

Model/Engine/Transmission
Versa Note 1.6 S 5MT	$14,180 USD
Versa Note 1.6 S Plus Xtronic	$15,430 USD
Versa Note 1.6 SV Xtronic	$16,330 USD
Versa Note 1.6 SR Xtronic	$17,530 USD
Versa Note 1.6 SL Xtronic	$17,960 USD

Source: Nissan

May 29, 2014

DeltaWing Four-Passenger Car Is Street-Legal

DeltaWing Technologies revealed information about its groundbreaking DeltaWing architecture. It is based on the philosophy of a highly aerodynamic and lightweight design, and draws inspiration from the currently competing in IMSA sports car road races. However, the car presented here is street-legal and has space for up to four-passengers. The published render image shows very unusual aerodynamic car design. It evokes motion, energy and speed

The innovative DeltaWing shape can significantly reduce aerodynamic drag, thus helping increase fuel efficiency. Another highlight is the considerably less overall mass. It was achieved via the use of lightweight steel, aluminum and advanced composite materials.

At the front, this vehicle features narrow-track front wheelbase, which incorporates smaller width tires. The rear-engine design places the center of gravity far to the rear. As a result – less weight on the front axles reduce the rolling resistance and further increase fuel efficiency. Handling is extraordinarily agile, as proven by the narrow front track of the DeltaWing race car.

In fact, DeltaWing Technologies has the goal to deliver fuel efficient, green technologies that benefit everyday drivers and reduce oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This will be achieved via reduced weight, increased powertrain efficiency, decreased energy consumption, and improved aerodynamics.

DeltaWing’s vehicle architecture is 35 percent lighter and requires 35 percent less horsepower. It also consumes 35 percent less fuel. The current performance targets are 0-60 mph in about six seconds, 130 mph top test-track speed, and up to 70 mpg with a small displacement, four-cylinder engine producing between 85 and 110 horsepower.

Source: Deltawing

May 29, 2014

Volkswagen Amarok Power Concept Debuts At Woerthersee

Volkswagen Amarok Power Concept is a car that will be unveiled at the Wörthersee festival in Austria. The pick-up has some superpowers, because of the special equipment it includes. Precisely it is loaded with the 5000-watt sound system, comprising of Pioneer CDJ900NXS player, two Void Acoustics Impulse 3t speakers, a Stasys Xair subwoofer and six micro speakers, as well as DJ equipment by Allen & Heath.

This Volkswagen concept is driven by the 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine. The unit, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, generates 272 hp (200 kW) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is under 8 seconds, while the top speed is 210 km/h (130 mph).

Furthermore, the Amarok Power concept has lowered by 80 mm suspension. It runs on huge 22-inch alloy wheels fitted with 295/35 tires. The truck is covered with grey foil. There are also orange accents all over it. Bi-xenon headlights with chrome inserts and chrome-plated twin tailpipes contribute for its playful exterior appearance.

Inside, the vehicle is wrapped in “power orange” nappa leather and black Alcantara. These materials cover the steering wheel, bucket seats and door panels. There are also a lot of carbon fiber inserts. Amarok silhouette can be seen lasered on the headrests.

Source: Volkswagen

May 28, 2014

Caterham Seven 250 R Designed By Kamui Kobayashi

Caterham Seven 250 R by Kamui Kobayashi is a brand new special edition of the car which was designed under the expertise of Caterham’s F1 Team driver. Only ten examples of the model will ever go on sale and even more – they will be exclusively sold in Japan. The car is based on the Seven 250 R but is equipped with an array of performance-focused features hand-chosen by the Formula One driver.

The car is powered by a 1.6 Ford Sigma engine and delivers up to 125 hp (92 kW). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph in just 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 122 mph. The unit is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission with a limited slip differential.

In terms of exterior, the car is finished in high-gloss black paint accented by matt black sport stripes. Every Kamui Kobayashi edition wears a number 10 badge on its nose, which is Kamui’s Formula One number. Carbon fiber is used for the front wings and rear wing protectors, and it infused with a unique Caterham green lacquer.

This Caterham model is a single-seater and includes an aluminium tonneau cover over the passenger seat area. There is also a single-sided rollover hoop fixed to the rear bulkhead, with 13-inch diamond cut black wheels. Polished chrome rear exit exhaust system rounds out the dynamic styling.

The performance theme is continued inside. Carbon fibre has been utilized for the dashboard and again it is infused with the green lacquer. The dashboard is also personally signed by Kamui.

The same material was used for the construction of the sports seat. It also features green contrasting stitching, a Kamui logo in the head rest and a green Takata-branded 4-point harness. Other interior features included in the car are the special Kamui gauge inlays, an anodised green gear knob with Kamui wordmark and an anodised green key.

In March the driver raced with a Caterham Seven 620R for the first time at Silverstone circuit. He also said that it took him only one corner, to understand the character of the car. The racer was also impressed by the power of the 620R, because it resembled a race car but was street legal.

The ten examples of Caterham Seven 250 R Kamui Kobayashi special edition are going on sale today in Japan, priced at ¥6,000,000.

Source: Caterham

May 28, 2014

2015 Hyundai Sonata Goes On Sale

2015 Hyundai Sonata is currently going on sale. It will offer its customers a more refined look thanks to the implementation of the Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language. In addition, it adds features such as hands-free Smart Trunk, Smart Cruise Control with stop/start capability, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The new design language includes stiffer body structure, better ride quality, and accents on the reduced noise, vibration and harshness. This Hyundai model is also equipped with advanced safety and convenience features.

As a standard, 2015 Sonata comes with seven airbags. In them is included the new driver’s knee airbag, which was created in order to help prevent the driver from sliding down the seat in a case of collision. Additionally, this allows the other restraint systems to be more effective.

Other active safety technologies assist drivers and help prevent accidents. Again as a cost-option, the car can get Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Lane Departure Warning System.

There are three trim levels equipped with the revised 2.4-liter Theta II GDI four-cylinder engine. Namely – the Sonata SE, Sport and Limited. The powertrain produces 185 horsepower (136 kW) and 241 Nm (178 lb-ft) of torque. New for 2015 is the Electronic Intake Continuously Variable Valve Timing (E-CVVT) system that enhances the overall performance in low temperatures and also minimizes emissions.

The refined 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI includes E-CVVT, and powers the Sonata Sport 2.0T models. The unit is optimized for lower-RPM drivability and it produces 245 horsepower (180 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque. Here, the twin-scroll turbocharger features a smaller turbine and compressor wheels. They provide better responsiveness and more torque in the low and mid RPM range.

2015 Hyundai Sonata will begin arriving at dealerships by the end of the month.

2015 Hyundai Sonata Pricing:

Model	Engine	Transmission	MSRP (USD)
SE	2.4L I4	6-Speed A/T w/SHIFTRONIC	$21,150 – $22,350
Sport	2.4L I4	6-Speed A/T w/SHIFTRONIC	$23,175 – $26,625
Limited	2.4L I4	6-Speed A/T w/SHIFTRONIC	$26,525 – $31,575
Sport 2.0T	2.0L Turbo I4	6-Speed A/T w/SHIFTRONIC	$28,575 – $33,525

Source: Hyundai

May 28, 2014

Bentley Teases Its First Production SUV [VIDEO]

Bentley SUV will arrive very soon! The countdown to the arrival has already begun and we are impatiently waiting to see the model. Bentley has dedicated to create world’s most powerful and luxurious SUV and thus set new standards in bespoke craftsmanship and performance. The current teaser is in video form and offers a rare glimpse of the company’s design approach. What is more – it shows how the exterior of this remarkable new car.

As we can see it features the emblematic sculpted, contemporary and distinctive design of Bentley’s, but also gives a hint that it is being combined with the exquisite and meticulous detailing.

As far as we can tell, the SUV’s front will probably be much like the 2012 Bentley EXP 9 F SUV Concept. The latter was introduced in Geneva, showing off flowing surfaces, muscularity and robustness, bold and dynamic exterior.

Both the concept and the SUV have the matrix grille, but the difference is that the headlamps of the SUV were inspired by those of Continental.

EXP 9 F Concept utilized company’s 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine coupled with an eight-speed transmission. The powertrain develops 600 hp (441 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. And we are wondering whether it will be featured in the production model.

Bentley only revealed that one of the powerplant options will be the plug-in hybrid that will be introduced in 2017. The new SUV is currently being prepared for production and is scheduled to hit roads in 2016.

httpv://youtu.be/r7Q1bJvZdTU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bentley

May 28, 2014

Volvo Shows 2015 XC90’s Interior

2015 Volvo XC90 was just partially revealed – the company has shown the first interior pictures of the upcoming model. The official premiere of the car will happen in August. In fact, the original XC90 was introduced in 2002 and eventually revolutionized the SUV segment with its combination of space, versatility and safety. As we can conclude from the photos, the XC90 features the most luxurious interior that have ever been designed for a Volvo.

Inside, the design of this SUV is inspired by the country of Volvo’s birth, Sweden. The country actually has the global reputation for integrating the latest technology with design that is clean, beautiful and crafted from the finest materials.

The most striking feature is the tablet-like touch screen control console. It is button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services.

Furthermore, the interior combines materials like a soft leather and wood with handcrafted details. For instance, the gear-lever was made of crystal glass, as the diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control.

2015 XC90 is the first Volvo to use Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). The latter creates a far wider range of design possibilities, improves driveability and permits the inclusion of the latest safety features and connected in-car technologies. In addition, it increases interior space.

Other details, for example around the safety and interior air quality will be released in late July or early August. The full reveal of the technology highlights, including chassis and powertrains, will start in mid-July and will continue throughout the summer. The exterior launch of 2015 Volvo XC90 is scheduled for the end of August.

Source: Volvo

May 27, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Restores 540 K Streamliner

Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner was built in the first half of 1938 and was delivered in June that year to the tyre manufacturer Dunlop. The car was employed for the testing of high-performance tyres for particularly fast and heavy vehicles, and then was adopted into the collection of the Mercedes-Benz Museum during the 1950s. 73 years after its introduction – in 2011 the vehicle was submitted for a full restoration process. The work began in the beginning of the following year and took approximately two and a half years to be fully reconstructed.

540 K was featured a streamlined aluminium body, which was an absolute one-off. It was designed strictly in accordance with the understanding of aerodynamics at that. As you can see it has flowing lines, low silhouette and minimal surface interruptions.

Streamliner was driven by an engine with 5401 cc output that produced 115 horsepower (85 kW). With a supercharger the power reached 180 hp (132 kW). The car managed a top speed of 185 km/h and a drag coefficient of Cd = 0.36.

Thorough research in the archives the specialists at Mercedes-Benz found that the vehicle was painted in silver-bronze and featured grey interior appointments and walnut wood trim. An important basis for the restoration was provided by the photos, quotation drawings and a historical description of the surface of the outer shell.

Of course, the restoration and reconstruction process was conducted via contemporary craft skills, methods and materials. The original line drawing of 1938 was transposed in meticulous detail to a 3D surface model with the help of CAD design techniques.

Extreme precision in the preparation and implementation of every detail and each stage of the work was then implemented. Original components were preserved and re-used, still showing the marks of time.

An interesting fact is that rebuilding the body shell alone involved more than 4800 hours of work. Then the reconstruction of the underbody panelling involved the help of aerodynamic experts from Mercedes-Benz passenger car development. The engine and transmission were repaired and eventually tested. The result is stunning – don’t miss the pictures below!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 27, 2014

2015 Volkswagen Passat Revealed In Sketches

2015 Volkswagen Passat has been revealed in several drawings. The company has also disclosed the first technical details of the new Saloon and Estate trims. The car will have its official debut July, while in front of public it will be premiered at Paris Motor Show in October. This is the eighth-generation Passat. For 41 years the car model been sold in over 23 million examples worldwide. From the brand are promising that it will bring a range of new technologies and features.

For the 2015 Passat Volkswagen has utilized advanced materials such as high-strength, hot-formed steel and aluminium. This has saved up to 85 kg (in comparison to its predecessor), thus achieving fuel-efficiency improvements of up to 20 per cent. The exterior dimensions are marginally smaller than those of the previous Passat. However, the interior space is improved, with more leg- and head-room and increased luggage space.

One of the main highlights of the new model is the high-performance, four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, bi-turbo diesel engine. It produces 240 horsepower (176 kW) and the huge 500 Nm (370 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm. This engine will be mated only with the new seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4MOTION all-wheel drive.

In addition, Volkswagen announced that a plug-in hybrid model will also be offered. It will have the potential to travel up to 31 miles on battery power alone, and with a maximum range of around 600 miles.

Other new technology includes the Active Info Display, a heads-up display, the latest Modular Infotainment System, including the Car-Net remote app, 360-degree Area View function and the latest generation of Park Assist. The latter includes the option for the car to park itself forwards into perpendicular spaces as well as the world-first Trailer Assist that helps when reversing a vehicle with a trailer attached.

Other safety technology includes Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, Emergency Assist and the latest Front Assist system with City Emergency Braking that can optionally combine both radar and camera sensors to add pedestrian detection. 2015 Passats will boast LED tail lights, while the headlights will be halogen or LED. In conjunction with Dynamic Light Assist, one of the two LED headlight options automatically modifies the beam for optimum illumination of the road.

More details and the first pictures of 2015 Volkswagen Passat will be available before the official premiere in July. The sales will start before the end of this year.

Source: Volkswagen

May 27, 2014

Eibach Adds Pro-Kits To Seat Leon Cupra

Eibach Seat Leon Cupra is equipped with tuning company’s suspension components which make the car even more dynamic. The Leon Cupra is in fact one of the most powerful cars in its sector, delivering 280 horsepower (205 kW). It is also famous for its dynamics. The proof for this is from the most recent lap record that the Spanish hatchback made (in its class) on the famous Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. However, the professionals at Eibach saw more fine-tuning potential here.

The modifications offered by them are through several Pro-Kits. Namely they are: the basic Pro-Kit, B12 Pro-Kit, Pro-Street-S, Anti-Roll-Kit and the Pro-Spacer. The first one offers additional performance springs, which reduce Seat’s centre of gravity. This of course also contributes towards a lower to the ground silhouette and more dynamic handling.

Next, the Eibach B12 Pro-Kit builds on the first one but also includes specially adapted Bilstein monotube gas-pressure shock absorbers. Eibach Pro-Street-S features Coil-Overs with stainless-steel components and the option for an individual height adjustment.

The Anti-Roll-Kit comprises of performance sway bars and offers less body roll and an even sportier set-up. It can be combined with the previous kits. At last, the Eibach Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers are made of aluminum. They lend the Seat Leon an more energetic look by widening the track width.

Source: Eibach

May 27, 2014

First Look: MINI Superleggera Vision Concept

MINI Superleggera Vision Concept is an exclusive interpretation of an open-top two-seater. It was created by MINI and Touring Superleggera. A classic roadster and a compact and agile two-seater, this car expresses minimalism and emotional style. In addition, it features an electric drivetrain, classic Italian body construction and hand-shaped metal sheeting. The exterior and interior elements have been reduced to the optimum level, in order to deliver a clear focus on the distinctive driving experience. High-end materials were utilized for the construction of this car: leather, aluminium and black chrome highlights.

The electrically powered MINI’s exterior features a stretched bonnet, long wheelbase and cool, short overhangs. The wheels are set widely on the body, while the passenger cell is slightly set back. At the front one can see the two circular headlights and a hexagonal grille define, which are unmistakable for the brand.

Classic sports car elements such as a wide track and distinctively curved wheel arches give the front a dynamic presence. The MINI bonnet stripes are three-dimensionally embossed. They run on into high-quality polished aluminum accents.

In addition, the horizontal rib look of the radiator grille evokes a classic sporty touch. The two fog lights perfectly complement and echo the circular contours of the headlamps. Also in circular form are the air inlets. A flat front splitter made of carbon fibre closes off the front to the road.

The large aluminium sheets of the construction of this concept vehicle are hand-crafted with the help of the most performing frame structures. What is more, the car was painted in specially developed exterior paint finish called Como Blue.

The rims and the elegant exterior mirrors in long-hole look are completed with a mirror base in polished aluminium. Discreet CFRP sills not only echo the front section, but also underscore the sporty character of the MINI Superleggera Vision.

At the rear, one finds striking fin, unusual lights designed in the form of a Union Jack and divided in two, a chrome bar that demarcates the rear lights at the centre of the rear, as well as a CFRP diffuser.

The interior of the vehicle is as minimalistic in terms of design as the exterior. Only a surrounding shoulder line in polished aluminium separates them. The most striking is the dashboard, which was created from a single aluminium sheet and has been left in the state the automobile body would look like without a paint finish.

The doors and the sporty 3-spoke steering wheel pay tribute to the traditional method of construction. The structural elements in the doors form a Union Jack. On the other hand, the Center Instrument in the middle of the instrument panel includes a touch-sensitive control element. Two circular instruments with metal surrounds are positioned on the right.

Furthermore, the interior was covered in brown leather in the classical color Sabbia. The structural elements in the doors and centre console are finished in high-quality black chrome. This sets them apart from the aluminium surfaces and the matt textured paint finish in the footwell area. The sporty bucket seats are covered in high-quality black leather. Misty Magenta was used for the air outlets under the instrument panel and inside the door openings in the structural elements of the doors.

MINI Superleggera Vision undoubtedly blends creativity and flexibility, classic beauty and pure art. It will have its world premiere at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

Source: MINI

May 26, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova