Author: Lidia Todorova

Olsbergs MSE Enhances Ford Fiesta ST Supercar For 2014 GRC

Olsbergs MSE Ford Fiesta ST Supercar is under preparation for the Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship (GRC). The rallycross has existed for three years now, during which Ford Racing has set a high standard, claiming three driver and three manufacturer championships. Olsbergs MSE (OMSE) has involved in the evolution of the Fiesta ST in order to make sure that the car will be a winner this year. The combination of enhancements in the Fiesta ST Supercar and changes in series regulations created an opportunity for improvement.

To be more precise the enhancements included has been done on the suspension, engine, wheels and body. Ford Fiesta ST Supercar’s suspension was an area of significant development with the series changing the spec tire from a bias ply tire to a radial Yokohama tire.

The OMSE retuned Fiesta produces up to 600 hp (441 kW) and 813 Nm (600 ft-lbs) of torque from its turbocharged 2.0L engine. For the wheels, OMSE have partnered with Motegi Racing to develop a lightweight, rallycross-specific wheel. The wheels are strengthened and reduce rotational mass. Ford Racing OMSE factory Supercars will also get updated looks.

Olsbergs MSE Ford Fiesta ST Supercar will make its Red Bull GRC debut on 18th May in Barbados. It will be driven by Patrik Sandell, Joni Wiman, Brian Deegan, and Nelson Piquet Jr.

Source: Ford

May 16, 2014
2015 Scion FR-S And tC Get Updates
2015 Scion FR-S and tC models are getting bolder and better this summer. They have been enhanced with the addition of several features and also include minor changes when compared to the previous model year. The new FR-S for instance features improved tuning as well as exterior appearance. The 2015 tC sports on the other hand, receives new colors and a sporty feature. Both vehicles are scheduled to go on sale in early June. Pricing is listed below.

To begin with the 2015 Scion FR-S, it is known for its outstanding dynamics, which are taken to a new level for the new model year. The updated FR-S features better handling and stability thanks to a more rigid front suspension and re-tuning of the rear shock absorbers. As a result from the improved damping, there is less body roll and a more communicative driving experience.

Furthermore, for better aerodynamics, the smooth look of a shark-fin antenna replaces the pole antenna. The exhaust tips are enlarged and charmonize perfectly with the rear bumper. The interior of the vehicle features an added auto on/off headlights, an updated interior panel with a carbon fiber look, and a new key design.

The car has been equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management technology. Exteriorwise, Steel replaces Argento as a sleek silver color and Whiteout has been replaced by Halo pearl white color.

2015 Scion tC has received and upgraded automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters which enhance the sporty driving experience. For the new model year there are two new colors: Cosmic Gray which replaces the Classic Silver and Blizzard Pearl which replaces the Super White. The refreshed Scion also includes Dynamic Rev Management technology.

Scion Pricing Chart:
- 2015 Scion FR-S (MT) $24,900 USD
- 2015 Scion FR-S (AT) $26,000 USD
- 2015 Scion tC (MT) $19,210 USD
- 2015 Scion tC (AT) $20,360 USD
Source: Scion
May 16, 2014
2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo To Be Revealed At ZDay Z

2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo has just been teased. Besides the image of the part of the front end and head-light the Japanese company has only disclosed that the vehicle will make a special global Nismo debut today 16 at 1:00 p.m. ET at ZDAYZ event located at Fontana Village Resort in North Carolina. And that is all. Luckily enough we don’t have to wait too long to take a look at the vehicle and get the impression of what it would be like. However, we can still get some information from the released teaser photograph.

What is visible is that the new 370Z Nismo has horizontal LED running lights and associated vertical vent, additional air intakes and a more-aggressive front splitter. We can’t see the grill very well but it seems updated. At last, the car will be probably running on double five spoke wheels fitted with low profile tyres.

As a matter of fact, this model stands at the top of the line of 370Z range. So far the car has been powered by the 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The unit generates 350 hp (257 kW) and 374 Nm (276 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission with SynchroRev Match technol.

Source: Nissan

May 16, 2014
Bentley Mulsanne 95 Celebrates Company’s Anniversary

Bentley Mulsanne 95 Special Edition has been designed and produced in order to celebrate Bentley’s 95th anniversary. The model is company’s luxurious flagship model. Only 15 examples will be hand crafted and they have all been reserved for customers in the United Kingdom. Their exterior paint finish is inspired by the British flag, while the interiors include unique wood veneer and range of design cues.

To go into details, there are three bespoke exterior colors: Britannia Blue, Empire Red and Oxford White. They have been created especially for this limited run of cars. The classic red, white and blue color palette is complemented by unique exterior details, such as a dark tint finish given to the iconic Flying B bonnet mascot and the striking 21-inch five-spoke wheels.

Inside, one can find the luxurious wood veneers and leather hides, illuminated treadplates featuring a bespoke ‘NINETY FIVE’ script and union flag detail, which turns the simple act of opening the door into an occasion. In addition, a distinctive ‘95’ emblem has been embroidered onto the front and rear seats. It has been also included on the passenger fascia panel.

In the case of Mulsanne 95, Bentley has selected a rare wood veneer from a huge walnut tree. It is estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old, and eventually came down at Fulbeck Hall in Lincolnshire during a heavy storm in 2007.

The signature ‘ring of wood’ of the veneer encompasses the entire interior. Its complex pattern shows a rare rippled effect which sweeps through the cabin. Furthermore, the walnut veneer is complemented by a blue and white two-tone leather split with red contrast stitching.

Source: Bentley

May 15, 2014
Virtual Reality: BMW Vision Gran Turismo [VIDEO]

BMW Vision Gran Turismo is just too good to be true. It is a virtual race car which races on the racetrack in Gran Turismo 6. The latter is an acclaimed racing title available exclusively on PlayStation3. Of course, the vehicle was created by BMW Group Design. It is powered by a virtual three-litre six-cylinder inline engine, developed by BMW M GmbH. The unit delivers peak performance of nearly 550 horsepower (404 kW). The car also promises fast laps and optimum handling and control.

The virtual the BMW Vision Gran Turismo has crisp proportions and a dynamic silhouette. The front and rear spoilers ensure optimum down-force, while all air conduction elements reduce drag. They also lower the vehicle’s total weight via the use of carbon fibre. The paint finish in BMW M colours traces the flow of the airstream.

As mentioned, this unique BMW is powered by the three-litre six-cylinder inline engine which utilizes M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 549 hp are delivered between 6,200 min-1 and 7,300 min-1. The peak torque is 680 Nm (502 lbb-ft) and is developed at just 1,900 rpm.

The powertrain is coupled with a sequential six-speed transmission, and is operated by gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. The engine power is distributed to the driven rear axle. All in all, BMW Vision Gran Turismo weighs only 1,180 kilograms, and includes a perfect 50:50 axle load distribution.

The video game “Gran Turismo” was introduced in 1998. It is one of the biggest and most famous award-winning racing simulations. It offers a wide range of realistic racetrack options and authentic-looking HD graphic images.

httpv://youtu.be/_obcI-bIS4Y

httpv://youtu.be/a8U89-JtMlI

Video Source: YouTube

Souce: BMW

May 15, 2014
Brabus And Smart Invite Fans To Create Unique Model [VIDEO]

2014 Brabus Smart Fan Edition is a very special model. It was created by Brabus and Smart as wished for by the fans of one of the smallest cars in the automotive industry. In fact, this is the goal of an unusual social media campaign that smart is launching today on Facebook. The end result will be to bring the unique vehicle to the road. The project can easily stand under the name of “anything but convetional” and the major contributor for the realization of this is Brabus.

An interesting fact is that Brabus has delivered more than 50,000 customised vehicles to the roads and this is since 2012. But the smart Brabus fan edition is breaking new ground: all smart fans are able to vote online for the configuration of the special model that will go on sale in the fall.

There will be five rounds of online voting and those who are interested are invited to vote on Smart’s official Facebook page. There, participants can vote on the color of the body-panels, the color of the tridion safety cell, the color of the seats and their quilting and the design of light-alloy wheels. In the end, the fans will have designed their ideal car.

The tuning company has developed an individualization program, which give the customers the option of a tailor made Smart Fortwo, which to match entirely their style and taste. They can choose among many features and add extra packages.

For instance, there is an available color package as well as leather package for the interior. The combined fuel consumption of the car is rated at 4.2 l/100 km, while the combined CO2 emissions at 97 g / km.

Source: Smart

May 15, 2014

2014 Toyota Auris Gets Icon Plus Grade

2014 Toyota Auris Icon Plus is one of the revised trim grades which will add to the current Auris range additional equipment features. Under refinement are both hatchback and Touring Sports wagon models. The new Icon Plus grade includes rear privacy glass, retracting door mirrors and heated front sports seats. In addition, the Auris Hybrid now can be ordered in three trim levels – Icon, Icon Plus and Excel. An innovation is the introduction of Toyota Touch 2 with Go touchscreen multimedia and navigation control system throughout the range.

Precisely, the Icon Plus grade builds on the established Auris Icon specification. It adds over it freshly designed 16-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and a folding function for the electrically adjustable door mirrors. Furthermore, the exterior of this Icon Plus will also benefit from the Tungsten Blue metallic paint finish.

The interior of the new grade includes heated sports front seats with electric lumbar support control, cruise control on the petrol and hybrid models as well as improved Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia and navigation package.

Furthermore, the Icon Plus grade will be available also for the Auris Hybrid hatchback and Touring Sports, next to the Icon and Excel trims. Additional features include leather upholstery for the seats, centre armrest and door panels. It is offered in black with either white or blue contrast stitching.

On the other hand the available Parking Pack (Icon, Icon Plus) provides color-matched front and rear parking sensors, while the Protection Pack adds front and rear mud flaps, scuff plate, a boot liner and a bumper protection plate.The third optional pack is the Chrome Pack that adds chrome side sills and boot trim.

2014 Toyota Auris Model Range:

GRADE	BODY	ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Active	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-i 6MT
Active	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-i 6MT
Active	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Active	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive E-CVT
Icon	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive E-CVT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.33 VVT-I 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Icon Plus	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Icon Plus	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Excel	Touring Sports	1.4 D-4D 6MT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Excel	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic 6MT
Excel	5dr hatchback	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Excel	Touring Sports	1.6 Valvematic Multidrive S
Excel	5dr hatchback	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT
Excel	Touring Sports	Hybrid Synergy Drive 1.8 VVTi E-CVT

Source: Toyota

May 15, 2014

2014 Peugeot 208 Style Equipped With PureTech Engines

2014 Peugeot 208 Style is a special edition which is currently going on sale. The car features additional equipment and includes company’s new PureTech engine technology. 208 Style is based on the best-selling Active trim level and will be offered in three- or five-door variant. The car includes some additional extras. To be more precise, they comprise of Cielo panoramic glass roof, satellite navigation, parking aid, leather steering wheel, chrome door mirrors, Style badging as well as a new seat trim.

The new special edition by Peugeot can be powered by three different types of engines. The first one is the PureTech 1.2-litre VTI, the second – the 1.4-litre HDI and the third is the 1.6-litre e-HDI Stop & Start engine.

The units are coming from the range brand’s innovative PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine technology. PureTech offers performance which is typical for the much bigger engines. However, it also delivers significantly improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, supported by the signature ‘Compact engine – Huge spirit’.

PureTech is a result of innovative engineering. The engines are built with reduced weight materials and are available in turbocharged and naturally aspirated formats. 2014 Peugeot 208 Style Special Edition is currently on sale and has a staring price of £13,445.

Source: Peugeot

May 14, 2014
2015 Land Rover Freelander Metropolis Is The New Flagship Model

2015 Land Rover Freelander Metropolis is the most luxurious Freelander built so far. The flagship vehicle is based on the previous HSE LUX specification. It will offer its occupants premium Windsor leather, electrically adjustable seats and a panoramic sunroof. In addition, standard features also include xenon headlights, reversing camera and 19-inch diamond-turned alloy wheels. Metropolis is joined in the range by the new SE and SE Tech models, which will also include revised powertrain options. Land Rover announced that the vehicle is set to make a UK debut at Royal Windsor Horse Show.

2015 Metropolis replaces the HSE LUX trim level benefiting from a wide range of sophisticated standard features. They of course contribute towards increased style, functionality and comfortability.

To go further into details, the equipment of the new model includes electrically adjustable, eight-way for driver and six-way for passenger, front seats. They are upholstered in premium Windsor leather. Inside one can also see touchscreen-controlled satellite navigation, as well as 825W meridian surround sound system. Heated steering wheel, luxury carpet mats, a reversing camera and gloss black interior detailing are also standard.

The occupants will enjoy the road-view better via a panoramic sunroof, while riding on Metropolis’ 19-inch diamond-turned alloy wheels. The exterior benefits from Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights as well as premium metallic paint.

Next to the Metropolis model, in the range are added the SE and SE Tech models. They replace the GS and XS designations, respectively. The first grade, SE, is the entry point to Freelander and is built on the GS specification. However, it also adds heated windscreen, front fog lights, front and rear centre armrests and 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels.

Furthermore, the company also delivers a Design Pack combination for the SE which comprises of color-matched bumpers and sills. Other standard features here include heated leather seats, climate control, Bluetooth, rear parking sensors and heater, power-folding door mirrors.

2015 SE Tech models add to the previous trim level a more powerful, 380W Meridian audio system, touchscreen-controlled navigation, automatic headlights and wipers, and ride on 19-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels.

As mentioned, Freelander’s powertrains have been revised for the new model year. Now they offer the TD4 engine with manual transmission in SE and SE Tech versions, while the SD4 unit comes coupled with automatic gearbox across the complete range.

2015 Land Rover Freelander goes on sale in the beginning of June with a starting price of £27,765.

Source: Land Rover

May 14, 2014
Skoda Citigo Gets Monte Carlo Trim Level

Skoda Citigo is one of the most successful cars in the line-up of vehicles that the company has built over the years. The model was introduced for the first time in September 2011 and since then it has created a strong presence in the automotive industry. We have seen so far many derivatives of the Citigo, but now it is time to get to know the 2014 Citigo Monte Carlo.

The car will be offered in both three-and five-door body styles. The new trim level is based on the mid-range SE grade. However, it will deliver to its customer many additional comfort, convenience and style features.

What makes the vehicle special and at the same time instantly recognizable as a Monte Carlo derivative, are the black external design elements. They are common to all Skoda Monte Carlo models.

Precisely, these include the alloy wheels, front and rear spoiler, rear diffuser, grille and door mirrors. The new model also comes with lowered suspension, thus contributing to a more dynamic stance on the road.

The interior of the car is also equipped with range of innovative features such as a sports steering wheel and Monte Carlo red/black upholstery. In addition, Skoda’s innovative Portable Infotainment Device (PID) also comes as also standard. The PID will add the comfort of satellite navigation, trip and vehicle information, Bluetooth connectivity and a media player.

Only a single engine option will be responsible for powering the 2014 Skoda Citigo Monte Carlo and it is the popular three-cylinder 1.0-litre unit. It generates 60 hp (44 kW) and is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. Environmental performance is excellent: 62.8 mpg combined fuel economy and CO2 emissions of only 105g/km.

2014 Skoda Citigo Monte Carlo has a starting price of £10,590.

Source: Skoda

May 14, 2014
2015 Buick Models Getting A Standard Rearview Camera

2015 Buick Enclave will come equipped with a standard rearview camera. The same will count for every 2015 Buick model. With this step the company shows how important is the safety and technology. As a matter of fact, in 2013 the University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute conducted a study which found that vehicles with rear backup cameras have a significantly reduced rate of backing crashes. Circa ninety-seven percent of the backing crashes in this study have involved striking another vehicle.

An added rearview camera increases the confidence of the driver. And although they do not come as a standard on all new models, Buick thinks that these cameras must be made a must-have feature.

What is more, in terms of safety, all 2015 Buick models, including Verano, LaCrosse, Enclave, Encore (fitted with AWD) and the Regal have a 5-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety in the New Car Assessment Program run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Other technologies which are available and come to help prevent a collision, are the active safety technologies such as Forward Collision Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

At last, the OnStar Automatic Crash Response Technology is fitted as a standard on each vehicle for six months. When a collision happens, a specially trained Emergency Advisor is connected to the vehicle the moment a crash is detected. If the driver requests help, or can’t answer, emergency responders are sent to the precise GPS location.

Source: Buick

May 14, 2014
Toyota Verso-S MPV Gets Refreshed For 2015

2015 Toyota Verso-S MPV has been updated for the new model year. The B-MPV segment vehicle retains its keen looks of clear, expressive and intelligent styling, but comes with an upgraded front. It includes engaging headlights featuring projector technology and LED daytime running lights. They come as a standard on all grades. The upper grill has been refreshed via a chrome bezel surround. At the rear there has been made changes, too. There, Toyota designers have featured new light design which not only adopts LED lights, but also benefits from more distinctive contrasts.

Other improvements include the 16” alloy wheels, which feature new design with 3-D effect. Furthermore, a new trendy bronze metallic paint finish has been added to the color palette to replace the current light blue metallic.

Inside, Verso-S customers can choose between a single-tone black interior or a bi-tone brown interior with black seat bolsters. To provide additional safety and convenience, a tire pressure warning system has been added to the standard equipment list.

The technologies featured include 6.1″ full colour touch screen display, Bluetooth connectivity for hands free calling and music streaming, a USB port to connect portable music players and an optional DAB/DAB+ radio. Also as a standard, Verso-S includes a rear-view camera.

The available equipment here includes: Touch 2 with Go with full map navigation with customisable speed limit & speed camera warning, which offers Toyota Real Time Traffic powered by TomTom, Google Street View, Panoramio, Google local search, weather, fuel price and parking space information.

Source: Toyota

May 13, 2014