Lidia Todorova – Page 166 – Automobiles Review

Minitune Enhances Mini Cooper S R56

Minitune Mini Cooper S R56 is a project of a brand new company, which is committed completely to the enhancing of vehicles of the model portfolio of the German premium compact car producer with British roots. Via a new body kit, wheels and performance boost the tuners have tailored a fashionable outfit for this Mini. To be more precise, the company’s Minitune body kit consists of a front spoiler bumper bar with big inlets, a black front grill, side skirts and a rear apron in diffuser optics and roof spoiler in racing looks.

In addition, Minitune integrated an air inlet with a formed scoop in the engine hood. Every reflective surface of the car has been lacquered in glittering black, in order an unmistakable sportier appearance to be achieved.

At the back, we can see dark LED rear lights and fog tail lamps in Union Jack design. To match the color of the bodywork, Minitune endowed the Cooper S R56 with a set of Motec Nitro single piece wheels in black with outline in matching car color. They come in the size of 8×18-inches and are covered with Kumho tires of the dimension 215/35R18.

The brake calipers have been also painted in the matching car color. Perforated EBC turbo groove brake disks on the front axle with EBC red stuff brake pads are also at hand. The brake upgrade is a reasonable counterweight to the performance boost.

The car’s power has been enhanced from 174 horsepower (128 kW) and 240 Nm (178 lb-ft) to the present 218 horsepower (160 kW) and 319 Nm (235 lb-ft). Minitune also mounted a better high-performance charging air intercooler.

Furthermore, a sports exhaust system made of stainless steel including the 200-cell sports catalyzer has been added. It features a centrally positioned double tailpipes that ensure the sound background to match the evolved performance. At last, Minitune Cooper S also features a sports chassis frame from the specialists of Koni. It delivers more agility and excellent driving comfort.

Source: Minitune

May 26, 2014

2015 Infiniti QX50 And QX70 – U.S. Pricing Announced

2015 Infiniti QX70 and QX50 are two extremely beautiful and luxury SUVs which are currently available in dealerships across the United States. The QX70 will go to its customers equipped with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, offering a rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive derivative. In addition, this model also can offer even sportier and luxury exterior and interior due to the available Sport Package. The QX50 on the other hand adds Bluetooth Hands-free Phone as a standard feature on base models.

Infiniti’s iconic performance crossover is undoubtedly the QX70. It embodies premium design, craftsmanship, performance and innovative technology in one shell. For the new model year, this SUV will have two variants: QX70 3.7 and QX70 3.7 AWD.

The company is offering four special equipment packages. Precisely, they are the Premium Package, Deluxe Touring Package, Technology Package and the new Sport Package. The last one adds unique dark finish exterior accents, 21-inch dark finish aluminum-alloy wheels, Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and climate-controlled front sport seats.

Next, the QX50 offers a sleek, sculpted, elegant exterior design, great driving performance and luxury interior. Unlike its bigger sibling, it will be produced in four variants: QX50, QX50 AWD, QX50 Journey and QX50 AWD Journey.

Each on of them will be equipped with the 325 hp (240 kW) 3.7-liter V6 engine matched with a 7-speed automatic transmission. What is more, the QX50 AWD models will also include Infiniti’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system and heated front seats. Three special equipment packages come available for this SUV: Premium Package, Deluxe Touring Package and Technology Package.

2015 Infiniti QX70 Pricing:

Model	Engine/Drive	MSRP
QX70	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$45,850 USD
QX70 AWD	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$47,300 USD

2015 Infiniti QX50 Pricing:

Model	Engine/Drive	MSRP
QX50	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$35,000 USD
QX50 AWD	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$36,400 USD
QX50 Journey	3.7-liter V6 / RWD	$37,200 USD
QX50 AWD Journey	3.7-liter V6 / AWD	$38,600 USD

Source: Infiniti

May 26, 2014

Skoda Yeti Xtreme Concept Debuts At Woerthersee

Skoda Yeti Xtreme Concept is a compact SUV with rally car ambitions. It is dynamic thanks to its engine, all-wheel drive and DSG, height-adjustable chassis and Octavia RS brakes. In addition, it features a rally car inspired interior that boasts aluminium floor panel, Recaro sports seats, carbon fibre trim, ‘Super Sports’ steering wheel, iPad cradle, fire extinguisher, off-road and rally equipment. Just as the Skoda CitiJet Design Concept, this is the second concept vehicle, which the visitors of Woerthersee Festival in Austria will be able to see. The premiere at the event will happen on 28th of May.

The sporty concept rally car is based on the popular compact Yeti SUV. It combines the power of an AWD SUV with the strong design elements and equipment features of a racy rally car. It is powered by a 1.8 TSI engine coupled with six-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG).

The unit produces 152 horsepower (112 kW) and maximum torque of 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) which is achieved between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm. Yeti Xtreme accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 192 km/h. The concept is also equipped with special Octavia RS brakes.

Furthermore, in terms of exterior, the concept model is painted in striking matt-grey. It runs on 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with large off-road tyres. It features tinted side windows, roof and wheel rim inserts in bright yellow-green. Powerful bumper and a large air intake, along with LED headlights are all at the front.

Shaped wings and powerful door sills can be seen from the side, while at the rear, the strong rear bumper and wide exhaust tailpipes round it all-out. The boot includes a spare wheel and recovery tracks.

Inside, the racy rally design theme continues. This means that this Skoda vehicle is equipped with features typically associated with rally use. Passengers can sit on 4 individual Recaro sports seats with integrated four-point safety belts, while only the driver can enjoy the “Super Sport” steering wheel with integrated gearshift paddles.

High-tech materials for various parts in car’s interior were utilized. For instance, the inner door covers have been made entirely from carbon fibre, a sand shovel and a thermos flask have been integrated into holders fitted in the paneling, the floor panel is made from aluminium.

Colour & Trim package is offered in this concept. It includes further carbon fibre elements and high-quality, dark Alcantara surface with green colour accents, aluminium pedals and special door sill plates. The centre console has been completely redesigned.

Source: Skoda

May 26, 2014

Kahn Shows Volcanic Grey Range Rover Evoque RS Sport

Kahn Range Rover Evoque RS Sport shows performance-oriented design from the outside, while on the inside – exceptional interior trim. The vehicle has been refined by the highly skilled specialists at A. Kahn Design. For this project they have used a combination of hi-tech materials and artisan craftsmanship. The lightweight design philosophy was implemented via the new front and rear bumper replacements, which have been engineered in carbon composite material.

Precisely, the designers have given this Range Rover a special RS Sport tech pack. It comprises of a 3D mesh front grille, LED daytime running lights, front bumper mesh in matt black at the front. At the back, the pack enhances the vehicle via lower boot lid spoiler lip in matt black, extended upper roof wing, rear tailgate trim in gloss black.

The brake calipers were finished in liquid gold. There were also added20mm lowering springs, twin crosshair exhaust system in stainless steel, sump guard in matt black, side vents in matt black, lower boot lid spoiler, rear diffuser in matt black, door handles and door mirrors in piano black and Kahn bonnet and tailgate lettering.

The Evoque is painted in volcanic grey color. It runs on RS 9.5 x 22″ gloss black wheels, which deliver optimum grip, body control and handling.

Inside, one can expect only multitude of improvements. This Kahn’s interior includes perforated front and rear seats in black nappa leather with Alcantara. There were also the following elements added: diamond gear selector, centre glove box re-upholstered in perforated black nappa leather, rev counter dial in red, speedo & rev counter coloured facia, machined vented aluminium foot pedals and intricately hand woven transmission tunnel, roof headline stitching and transmission tunnel in Alcantara with contrast stitching.

Source: A. Kahn Design

May 23, 2014

Audi S3 Limousine By SR Performance

SR Performance Audi S3 Limousine is a low attitude racer. It features a striking lowering modification through a special KW coilover kit. In addition, the kit also includes an adjustable suspension strut bearing on the front axle. For this massive lowering SR Performance just had to add huge wheels, that will harmonize with vehicles new appearance.

The 8.5×20-inch forged wheels in 10-spoke V-design were initially created for S3 bigger brother A6 4G, but they also fit perfectly here as well. Vredestein Ultrac Sessanta tires of the dimension 225/30R20 were then matched with the wheels. What is more, 5-millimeter spacing rings were additionally applied for the horizontal fitting.

Another exterior modification done here is the wrapping don over the roof which now shines in glittering black. The effect of the foiling is that the the hard “edge” was eliminated. SR Performance continued with modififactions regarding the performance of this Audi.

Precisely, the 2.0-liter turbo engine was given an MTM M-Cantronic performance boost and a BN pipes-downpipe and a 200-cell HJS catalyzer. The pipe of the exhaust system measures 85/76 millimeter in diameter.

The result is that the unit generates 380 horsepower (280 kW) and a maximum torque of 470 Nm (347 lb-ft). Just for a comparison, the production S3 delivers 300 hp (220 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). What is left to mention is that SR Performance S3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.6 seconds.

Source: SR Performance

May 23, 2014

Skoda To Debut CitiJet Design Concept

Skoda CitiJet Design Concept is the second concept vehicle we present today that is to have its premiere at the Woerthersee Festival in Austria. It is a two-seater sports convertible, which is based on the Skoda Citigo. The design concept is the result of brand’s ‘Apprentice Car’ project. The work on the car lasted six months – from November 2013 until shortly before the GTI event. The creativity of the apprentices was supported by Skoda’s Head Designer Jozef Kaban and his team. The result is undoubtedly an emotional design concept that will attract the attention of visitors at the event.

The exterior of this concept includes distinctive metallic paintwork in blue/white and racy. The car runs on blue 16-inch alloy wheels and also features a hand-made rear spoiler as well as a powerful exhaust with two tailpipes. CitiJet Design Concept is powered by the 1.0 MPI petrol engine which develops 55 kW (75 hp).

Inside, the interior is sporty and is based on the Citigo Sport special edition. This means that it includes red-stitched, leather-lined three-spoke steering wheel as well as the leather cover of the handbrake handle and gear knob.

The dashboard is painted white/red, while a 300 watt sound system will deliver perfect sound for the entertainment of the occupants. In addition, the interior also has music-reactive LED lighting.

Although this is the first time that this kind of trainee project has been undertaken at Skoda, it clearly has shown great results. The aim of the company was to encourage the apprentices’ creativity, teamwork and expertise. The outcome: a truly unique and emotional car, of which everybody involved, should be very proud of.

Source: Skoda

May 23, 2014

Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo

Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo is a supercar that has something in common with the BMW Vision Grab Tourismo. And if you follow us regularly you probably have already guessed that what they share is the sad fact that they will never be produced. Why? Because just like the BMW, this Volkswagen has been designed for a singular mission – to be featured in a video game. All of you who have a Sony PlayStation will have the pleasure of driving this virtual beauty.

What is more, the brand has announced that this extreme interpretation of the Golf GTI will make its debut at the Woerthersee Festival in Austria. The event starts on 28th of May. The ultimate vehicle uses the Golf GTI Design DNA to create a strong sporting statement, with distinctive horizontal graphics.

GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo is driven by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo VR6 TSI engine. The latter produces 503 horsepower (370 kW) and 665 Nm (491 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is coupled with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, which has been programmed to give incredibly fast shifts on the racetrack.

Integrated rear diffuser, a gigantic rear wing, and a race-car-style front splitter optimize the roadholding on the track. The car runs on 20-inch wheels that carry 235/35 front and 275/30 rear tires.

4Motion all-wheel drive helps to transmit the torque to the pavement, while the supercar-style vented disc brakes are fitted, with a diameter of 15.0 inches up front and 14.0 inches at the back. Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo has a bright, vivid metallic red exterior color.

Source: Volkswagen

May 23, 2014

Lamborghini Permanently Displays Egoista At Brand’s Museum

Lamborghini Egoista was unveiled last year at the gala Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary event. It is one of the most contemporary looking supercars ever created and it is clearly visible that the design of the car is inspired by the passion for innovation and alternative solutions. Egoista is developed by Walter De Silva, who is Head of Volkswagen Group Design. Of course, it became reality in order to pay tribute to the House of The Raging Bull’s 50th anniversary. This automotive gem is now becoming a permanent part of the prestigious collection in the Lamborghini Museum.

If you are not familiar already, this futuristic single-seater is one-off. This means that it now can be seen only in the museum. The supercar is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 engine which delivers 600 horsepower (441 kW).

Its exterior is a pure example of Lamborghini’s DNA, however – taken to a next and more extreme level. The look is distinguished by a muscular structure with alternating open and solid areas. At the sides, the profile suggests the stylized silhouette of a bull about to charge.

In addition, in the headlight system can be seen car’s aeronautical flair. This is evident also in the body made of carbon fiber and aluminum materials. The car has stealth-like capabilities; its exterior sports anti-glare windows with an orange hue, while in the cockpit the driver is insulated and protected from external elements.

In order to leave the vehicle, the driver must remove the steering wheel and leave it on the dashboard. Then they must open the dome by actuating an electronic control and climb out of the cockpit. Isn’t it just like what one must do in fighter jet aircrafts?

One year after it was introduced, the Lamborghini Egoista has returned to its home in Sant’Agata Bolognese. It will be a permanent exhibit in the museum but at first it will be shown in Lamborghini’s showroom.

Source: Lamborghini

May 22, 2014

Reserve Package Enhances 2015 Lincoln Navigator

2015 Lincoln Navigator is a luxury SUV which was introduced in the end of January this year. The vehicle will go on sale in early fall. It includes redesigned exterior, updated interior and more powerful engine. The news here however is that Lincoln is currently adding the available Reserve Package. The latter includes 22-inch wheels, luxurious leather interior and premium Ziricote wood trim.

The new Navigator is powered by the twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. The unit delivers 380 horsepower (280 kW) and 623 Nm (460 lb.-ft.) of torque. This outstanding power also shows great towing capability of 9000 pounds.

Furthermore, the EcoBoost engine is coupled with the six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, which is also new for the 2015 model year. In addition, Lincoln Drive Control with a continuously controlled damping suspension delivers smoother ride, while the electric power-assisted steering offers responsive handling.

As a standard Lincoln has made the continuously controlled damping on all 4×4 models and all Navigators equipped with the available 22-inch wheels. In fact, the 4×4 models also add as no option the hill start assist and Hill Descent Control.

In terms of exterior, 2015 Navigator includes changes such as refined split-wing grille and puddle lamps below front doors. Standard interior enhancements include luxurious leather and additional new customer-focused technologies.

For instance such as push-button start, SYNC with MyLincoln Touch connectivity system, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert, and an LED-backlit instrument cluster with tachometer, trip odometer, compass, outside thermometer and message center.

As mentioned, Lincoln has added an optional Reserve Package which delivers even more luxury. To be more precise, it includes Lincoln Drive Control with continuously controlled damping, 22-inch polished aluminum wheels, premium Ziricote wood trim, ultra-luxurious leather-trimmed seats in all three rows, hand-wrapped leather and stitched instrument panel, armrests and console.

Lincoln Navigator L is the longer wheelbase version and will continue to be offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 versions. It has 131-inch wheelbase in comparison to the standard 119 inches, as well as a total length of 222.3 inches versus 208.4 inches.

2015 Lincoln Navigator is scheduled to be in showrooms early this fall. The base model has a starting price of $62,475 USD. Pricing for the 4×2 models equipped with the Reserve Package is estimated at $69,975 USD, while this for the 4×4 Reserve Package starts at $72,900 USD. 2015 Lincoln Navigator L 4×2 version can be bought for $64,640 USD, while the 4×4 version for $68,215 USD.

Source: Lincoln

May 22, 2014

Law Enforcement Agencies Demanding 2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit AWD

2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit AWD is the star of the circuit, which Chrysler Group is hosting at public and private tracks across the United States. With this vehicle, the Michigan State Police recorded their fastest-ever AWD lap time during their annual police vehicle evaluation tests. Police chief, patrolman, sheriff’s deputy or fleet manager – all want to test drive the police sedan. Precisely, last week Chrysler’s government and fleet operations team hosted 50 law enforcement agencies at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida.

In fact, this is the sixth stop on the tour, which has started in February. By the end of the tour, the team will complete twenty more tracks across the country this year. This is the only practical way, from which the law enforcement agencies can experience how capable the new Charger Pursuit AWD is.

This not only provides a testing opportunity, but also builds on the strong relationship between the brand and the largest municipalities who currently use Dodge Charger Pursuits in their fleets. In general, there are 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S., which are in a constant state of vehicle evaluation.

2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit AWD is powered by the high-performance 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. It delivers great levels of power, refinement and fuel efficiency. In details, it generates 370 horsepower (272kW) and 390 lb.-ft. (528 Nm) of torque, which results in acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds. The fuel economy is estimated at 25 highway mpg.

To go further into details, the new Charger Pursuit AWD recorded the fastest lap time during Michigan State Police’s 2014 Vehicle Evaluation Test (1:33.85) last September. Next to the HEMI V-8, law enforcement agencies are driving the Charger Pursuit RWD with V-8 and V-6 engines, and the Ram 1500 and Dodge Durango Special Services vehicles.

Law enforcement agencies began ordering the vehicle earlier this year. First orders were delivered last month.

Source: Chrysler

May 22, 2014

GMC Introduces 2015 Sierra HD All Terrain

2015 GMC Sierra HD All Terrain is a refined, off-road-inspired execution of the brand’s capability which has been introduced today. The vehicle blends exclusive design features with the versatility of 4WD. The model will be available on 2500HD and 3500HD double cab and crew cab models. In addition, it will be offered with SLE or SLT trims, all of which will be fitted with 4-Wheel-Drive. What is more, GMC is also offering here the Z71 Off Road package, with Rancho twin-tube shocks, hill descent control and a skid plate. Sierra HD is powered by the 6.0L gas engine as a standard, while as an option – there is the Duramax turbo-diesel unit.

Starting with the exterior of the car, the All Terrain features chrome surround on the grille, exterior graphics, aluminum underbody shields and runs on 18-inch six-spoke chrome cast-aluminum wheels as a standard. There are available twenty-inch chrome aluminum wheels on the 2500HD.

On the other hand, the 3500HD also includes adjustable outside camper mirrors with a chrome cap. Next, on the outside one can see the light-emitting diode signature headlamps, body-color bumpers as a standard (chrome bumpers are optional), chrome mirrors covers and body side moldings and chrome front-lower bumper plate.

Going on the inside of the car, the occupants can expect a carbon fiber-inspired theme. All Terrain is featured on the instrument cluster, while the rearview camera system comes as a standard. Latest connectivity technologies are featured in the vehicle. Precisely, they include IntelliLink and new OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

Furthermore, the SLE and SLT trims will get heated and power-adjustable trailering including auxiliary back-up lamps. The latter are integrated in each mirror end improve trailer visibility. SLE trailering mirror is black and can be extended and folded manually, while the SLT/Denali mirror has a chrome cap and adds a power-folding feature.

In terms of safety, the model is equipped with features such as forward collision alert, lane departure warning with an active safety seat, front and rear park assist, head-curtain and seat-mounted side airbags. 2015 GMC Sierra HD All Terrain will go on sale this summer.

Source: GMC

May 22, 2014

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Supercharged With HEMI Hellcat Engine

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT debuted a month ago showing-off its new style, performance enhancements and muscular presence. Now Dodge is announcing that the new Challenger will get supercharged with the 600-plus horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 HEMI Hellcat engine. Thanks to it, the car will deliver unrivaled performance. In addition 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat will feature race-inspired interior and new technologies that will satisfy all driving enthusiast.

2015 Challenger SRT and Challenger SRT with the Hellcat engine are re-designed and totally re-engineered. The new V-8 engine can be mated with an upgraded six-speed manual transmission or the innovative TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic. The latter is the first such gearbox ever offered in the Dodge Challenger SRT.

In addition to the 600 hp-capable HEMI V-8, Challenger SRT models also get a power boost with upgrades to the 392 HEMI V-8. In this case the horsepower is rated at 485 (357 kW), while the peak torque at 644 Nm (475 lb.-ft). This powerplant can be also coupled with the aforementioned TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission or can get the six-speed manual one.

The Challenger equipped with the Hellcat engine comes standard with two key fobs – red and black. The red key fob is the only key that can unlock the full horsepower and torque potential of the muscle car. On the other hand the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output.

Another exclusive feature in the cars are the SRT’s “77” eight-spoke 20 x 9-inch forged-aluminum “Hyper Black” wheels. They come standard coupled with the Goodyear RSA2 All-Season 245/45ZR20 tyres at the front and rear or with the available Goodyear F1 Supercar Three-Season tires. Available on the Challenger SRT Hellcat are 20 x 9.5-inch, lightweight forged-aluminum wheels with a Brass Monkey/dark bronze finish.

In terms of exterior the new Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat also includes dual air extractors, hood in standard body color or in available Satin Black finish, Air Catcher inlet port, quad projector headlamps, more aggressive brow “chops” the upper portion of the lamp design, integrated projector fog lamps pushed to the lower corners, new duck-bill fascia splitter, and larger front splitter.

At the sides one can see signature muscular proportions and large thruster rear-quarter panels. What differentiate the Challenger SRT Hellcat from the rest of the Challenger lineup are its “SUPERCHARGED” fender badges.

At the rear, the tail lamps include new signature LED graphic. A redesigned rear valance makes the SRT models look more planted on the ground. At last, unique taller rear spoiler on the SRT Hellcat features a raised SRT logo.

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT 392 will be available in 11 exterior colors: B5 Blue Pearl Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Pearl Coat, Ivory White Tri-Coat Pearl, Jazz Blue Pearl Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat Pearl, Pitch Black Clear Coat, Redline Tri-Coat Pearl, Sublime Metallic Pearl Coat and TorRed Clear Coat. The twin, full-body stripes are available in Black Satin Gloss and Silver High Gloss.

The interior of the cars is performance orientated and is inspired by the interior of the 1971 Challenger.The instrument panel features a stamped aluminum bezel and 7-inch driver-selectable driver information display (DID) screen centered in the gauge cluster. The dashboard’s center stack houses the new standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen.

Inside, one can also see a redesigned SRT-branded heated steering wheel with available paddle shifters. The refreshed seats include improved cushioning and more comfortable contours. At the front the seats are heated and ventilated as a standard.

At last, the seats can be covered in Nappa leather or Alcantara and will include SRT logos as a standard. The available Laguna premium leather is colored either sepia or black and features embossed SRT logos. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT will have a production start in the third quarter of 2014.

Source: Dodge

May 21, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova