Lidia Todorova – Page 173 – Automobiles Review

Rolls-Royce Unveils Pinnacle Travel Phantom

2014 Rolls-Royce Pinnacle Travel Phantom is a showcase of brand’s pre-eminence in Bespoke design seen through the prism of luxury travel. And it is all intended for the customers in China. The exclusive vehicle has been unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show, displaying a new Bespoke Collection motor car. It celebrates both the Chinese love of travel and the success of the Bespoke programme in China. In fact, China continues to be the largest outbound travel market for the second year in a row, spending an estimated $125 billion on travel in 2013.

Pinnacle Travel Phantom offers a luxury experience through its colour palette, opulent materials used and the most complex hand-crafted marquetry ever seen in a Rolls-Royce. It evokes the experience of travelling on luxurious cross-continental trains.

As a true Phantom it carries the richness of two-tone exterior colour scheme which includes Madeira Red complemented by Silver Sand on the lower side panels. The unique Madeira Red coach line can be seen next to an abstract motif of a streamlined train travelling at speed. In addition, Infinity Black combined with Silver Haze or Melanite combined with Palladium is also offered as colour schemes.

Inside the car boasts number of Morello Red and Seashell leather combinations, which are used for the seats, roofliner, pillars and door cards plus Morello Red lambs wool floor mats. A motif in Smoke Grey thread evokes luxury travel and previews the craftsmanship of Rolls-Royce. The motif is stitched into the seat flutes and is echoed in individual fabric cushions.

Furthermore, the pièce de la resistance, is the most complex and intricate marquetry ever seen inside a Rolls-Royce. Here, individual pieces of wood veneer are laser-cut and then assembled into sections.

2014 Rolls-Royce Pinnacle Travel Phantom includes 230 individual pieces of marquetry, combined to create the incredibly striking motif of a cross-continental train speeding across a landscape with plumes of steam left in its wake. The motif flows across the front-fascia pieces of glove box and passenger panel to the rear picnic tables and door cappings. In addition, the same motif can be seen also onto the door cards through 24,633 individual stitches.

Source: Rolls-Royce

April 22, 2014

Volkswagen Shows Golf R 400 Concept Car

Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept Car was revealed a few days ago via several design sketches. The brand has just released the first official pictures of the car as well as additional data. The concept was on display at Auto China show in Beijing. The 400 in the name of the concept stands for the horsepower it generates. The new Golf also features unique body and bumper modifications s well as flared wheel-arches that make it even more aggressive and sporty. It is based on the standard Golf R hatchback and therefore features 4MOTION four-wheel drive.

Golf R 400 generates up to 400 hp (295 kW) and adds extra 70 Nm of torque to the production hatchback, making it a total of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) available from 2,400 to 6,000 rpm. The increase of power is due to the modified version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine (Type EA888). The unit is coupled to a six-speed DSG transmission, which helps the model accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 174 mph.

The optimized engine has a newly developed turbocharger with a higher maximum charge pressure and reinforced crankcase. A water-cooled exhaust gas feed to the turbocharger integrated in the cylinder head helps to reduce full-load fuel consumption, while variable valve control with dual camshaft adjustment enhances the economy and performance.

Golf R 400 concept weighs only 1,420 kg. Its body is 20 mm wider on each side, when compared to the production version. It also sports flared wheelarches that are reminiscent of those on the 1988 Rallye Golf G60. These arches are painted in ‘Silver Flake’ metallic, and contrast with the gloss black roof and carbon door mirror caps.

In addition, new sill extensions bridge the gap between the widened arches. They are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 235/35 R19 tyres. At the front, the bumper has been entirely redesigned. In addition, a carbon fibre splitter and aerodynamic ‘wing element’ help to push air towards the honeycomb mesh of the grille.

An ‘R’ badge is positioned on the gloss black radiator grille, and sits on a ‘Lemon Yellow’ background. A horizontal stripe across the grille continues into the bi-xenon headlights and is also Lemon Yellow.

At the rear, the bumper has been also redesigned and includes vents on each side. There are also four sporty tailpipes which have been replaced with two centrally mounted items. A black double spoiler with LED brake lights atop the tailgate finishes the look.

The interior of the concept Golf features motorsport shell seats with integrated head restraints and belt openings. The seats are upholstered in cross-quilted panels covered in Alcantara, and “carbon leathe”. The same approach is used for the two individual rear seats. A contrast stitching in Lemon Yellow can also be seen inside.

Unfortunately, there are no current plans for production of the Volkswagen Golf R 400 Concept Car.

Source: Volkswagen

April 22, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV In Details

Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV was unveiled in the beginning of the month with a first picture and some details. Now, the German company is releasing a package of images as well as detailed information around this extremely sporty study concept. At first glance, the SUV impresses as a typical coupe with its flowing sideline, stretched cabin and striking radiator grille with central chrome louvre. At the same time, it stands out with its muscular wings, large wheel arches, 22-inch wheels, high beltline and generous ground clearance. Not to mention its dynamic handling on the road.

The four-door, all-wheel drive Coupe has a length of almost five metres, while its width is of two metres thanks to its broad shoulders and flared wheel arches. However, the height is around 1.75 metres, thus exhibiting the flat, extended roofline that is typical of a sports coupe. The concept sports recessed door handles and frameless side windows that blend perfectly into the vehicle flanks.

Mercedes Benz’ new concept SUV is painted in the “Alu Beam” paint finish, which is also reminiscent of the technically ground-breaking Silver Arrows of the 1930s and 1950s. Other highlights include upright sports grille with single louvre, framed by the three-dimensionally designed all-LED Multibeam headlamps.

Soft cubes dominate the grille insert. Harmoniously integrated illuminated side sills are reminiscent of the running boards found on classic SUVs or off-roaders. The direction indicators work with a moving digital light band whose lighting elements light up sequentially from inside to outside. In this way they indicate the change in direction in two ways.

The coupe nature of this concept SUV can be seen also in the design of the rear end with the slim band of rear lights and the registration plate incorporated into the rear bumper. Another feature is the typical shape of the rear window, which is rounded off at the top.

The tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system are integrated into the simulated underguard. Polished aluminium dominates here, as on the integral door handles, the side sills, the front air intakes and the edging of the cabin. At last, Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV runs on wide 22-inch wheels with tyres in size 305/45 R 22.

Mercedes-Benz Concept Coupe SUV Technical Data:

Body type/construction	Four-door, four-seater coupé study, frameless side windows
Engine	V6, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement	2996 cc
Rated output	245 kW (333 hp) at 5500 rpm
Rated torque	480 Nm at 1400- 4000 rpm
Mixture formation	Electronic direct petrol injection, piezo injectors, 2 turbochargers
Transmission	9G-TRONIC PLUS nine-speed automatic transmission with torque converter lock-up, twin-turbine damper with centrifugal pendulum and DIRECT SELECT gearshift, ECO start/stop
Drive	4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, ASR, ESP®, 4ETS,
Chassis and suspension	Double wishbone at the front, multi-link at the rear, special air suspension with selective damping, ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM active roll stabilisation
Braking system	High-performance ceramic composite brake system, electric (parking brake, ABS, BAS PLUS PRE-SAFE© Brake
Steering	Electromechanical power steering
Transmission modes	COMFORT, SLIPPERY, SPORT, SPORT+, INDIVIDUAL
Wheelbase	2916 mm
Track, front/rear	1683 / 1768 mm
Wheel/tyre size front/rear	10J x 22 305/45 R 22 / 11J x 22 305/45 R 22
length	4935 mm
Width with/without mirrors	2208 / 2044 mm
Height	1739 mm

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 22, 2014

Ford Mustang GT 50 Year Limited Edition Debuts In New York

Ford Mustang GT 50 Year Limited Edition comes to pay homage to one of world’s most popular cars. Exactly, fifty years ago in 1964 the first Mustang debuted in New York. The Mustang GT 50 Year Limited Edition will be produced in the exact number of 1964 examples and will go on sale this fall. It is based in the new 2015 Mustang GT fastback, equipped with performance pack. The only options for the 50 Year Limited Edition are the choice of two exterior colors and a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The muscle car is powered by the upgraded 5.0-liter V8 engine. It produces more than 420 horsepower (310 kW) and 530 Nm (390 lb.-ft.). In addition, every 50 Year Limited Edition will be equipped with the Mustang GT performance pack. The latter features six-piston Brembo front brakes and 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with high-performance Y-speed-rated Pirelli P-Zero summer tires.

In fact, the design of the 19-inch alloy wheels is inspired by the unique Y-spoke design of the chromed steel wheels offered on the original Mustang. In particular, the front wheels are 9.0 inches wide and come with 255/40R tires, while the rear wheels are 9.5 inches wide and are with 275/40R tires.

Inside, the drivers will know they are driving a very special car. The reason for this is the addition of an aluminum trim panel that spans the double-brow instrument panel and gets an axel spin finish. The latter is different from other 2015 Mustangs.

A special serialized 50 Year Limited Edition badge on the passenger side adds also to the uniqueness of the model. The limited-edition car is the only 2015 Mustang with a cashmere-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The same stitching is also applied on the instrument panel, shifter boot, center armrest, door inserts and seats.

Furthermore, the seats include two-tone cashmere and black leather upholstery, and the Mustang 50 Year logo on the seat backs. The cars will be equipped with loop-carpet floor mats with cashmere stitching and suede binding, which can’t be seen on other Mustangs.

Source: Ford

April 17, 2014

Volvo S60L PPHEV Concept Debuts At Auto China

Volvo S60L PPHEV Concept is to debut at the 2014 Beijing International Auto Show. PPHEV stands for Petrol Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, which means that an electric car, hybrid car and high-performance car are all rolled into one. This offers the driver an excellent combination of dynamic driving pleasure and great fuel economy. The production version of the model is planned to be launched in China early 2015 and will be built locally.

S60L PPHEV features the same electrification technology as the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid. The latter was world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid. In the new concept, however, the diesel engine has been replaced with a two-litre four-cylinder petrol turbo unit from the Drive-E engine family.

It produces 238 hp (175 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Other key components in the powertrain are the crankshaft-driven ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) between the engine and the 8-speed automatic gearbox and the 68 hp electric motor powered by a 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

There are three driving modes: Pure, Hybrid or Power. In the default hybrid mode, the CO2 emissions are rated at 50 g/km, while the fuel consumption is just 2.0l/100 km. The all-electric range is 50 km. When both petrol turbo engine and electric motor are used together, they deliver 238+68 horsepower, 350+200 Nm of torque, and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.5 seconds.

The concept can be recharged from a regular power outlet at home or in a car park. A full charge takes up to an approximately 4.5 hours. In addition, the model also has an AWD button, which activates the exceptionally responsive electric four-wheel drive

S60L PPHEV Concept Car is painted in a matt white crystal pearl colour. Accents include contrasting black or blue details on the lower body and the seven-spoke wheels. Inside, the interior features hazel-brown leather with contrasting stitching on the seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and door panels. Additional chrome detailing and a blond colour theme above the belt line contribute to the luxurious in-car experience.

Source: Volvo

April 17, 2014

Dodge Viper GTS Time Attack Carbon Special Edition

Dodge Viper GTS Time Attack Carbon Special Edition has been shown today at the New York International Auto Show. Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand is enhancing the iconic Viper with an Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package as well as with the new Time Attack Group road-racing spec-package. Only 50 examples of this exclusive model will be produced. Of course, each vehicle will carry a numbered dash plaque that will identify its uniqueness.

Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package was introduced last year. It adds to the Viper GTS one-of-a-kind Metallic Matte exterior color. Now, the vehicle is getting even more outstanding via the combination of the special exterior color with the new Time Attack Group of performance parts.

These parts include a carbon fiber rear deck lid spoiler and two-piece front corner splitters. In addition, also included are two-mode Bilstein dampers which were tuned for maximum on-track performance. They feature unique orange springs.

Furthermore, Street and Race Mode suspension settings offer firmer damping. Other highlights in terms of handling are the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, matte black lightweight forged-aluminum Sidewinder wheels and solid sway bars. Track-duty two-piece Brembo brake rotors contribute to an increased thermal capacity for additional resistance to brake fade.

In fact, the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package features Metallic Matte Black and satin surface finishes. Satin Black Vapor marks the exhaust bezels, fuel-filler door, and carbon brake ducts and a rear appliqué below the liftgate.

The interior is wrapped in Alcantara. Contrast is making the orange stitching. Precisely, an Alcantara headliner, Alcantara-wrapped knee blockers and door bolsters provide interior surface texture contrast, while gunmetal bezels, orange vent accents, and carbon-fiber trim make the accents here. Nappa leather and Alcantara is used for the sport seats.

Source: Dodge

April 17, 2014

Mazda Introduces MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition

Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is making a world premiere today at the New York International Auto Show. The Miata in Japanese stands for roadster; and this special edition sportscar was created to celebrate 25 years since the introduction of Mazda’s iconic roadster – MX-5 at the Chicago Auto Show in the USA. The car also incorporates the newly-developed SKYACTIV-chassis that will form the basis of the next generation MX-5. Since 1989 more than 940,000 units have been produced and the successful model continues to hold the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater sportscar.

Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is based on the 2.0-litre 160 hp Roadster Coupe. It has a power retractable hard top and its engine is mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The car is exclusively offered in Soul Red Metallic color.

The Brilliant Black-painted roof, A-pillars, and door mirror housings reflect the great amount of attention to the detail that has been paid to this car. In addition, the off-white leather seat upholstery and door trim, hand-finished dashboard decorative panel in Piano Black and the fitting of Bilstein dampers plus 17-inch Dark Gunmetal alloy wheels contribute to the exclusive appearance of the model.

In the new SKYACTIV-chassis the engine will be located closer to the vehicle’s centre and the vehicle’s centre of gravity will be lower than in any previous Mazda MX-5. The upcoming model has been engineered and developed to achieve excellent body rigidity. In addition, it also reduces the overall weight by more than 100 kg.

Source: Mazda

April 17, 2014

Audi exclusive RS7 dynamic edition Debuts In New York

Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition is making a debut today at the New York International Auto Show. In addition, the car will start arriving at dealerships in early summer. Highlights of the new model include Crimson Red safety belts, stitching throughout the interior, Tornado Red brake calipers, Carbon fiber elements, DRC suspension and sport exhaust. In addition, this car also combines all of the performance of the 560 horsepower RS 7 including with elements of the exclusive customization program.

The interior of the car is adorned by Black Valcona leather seats which have RS specific honeycomb stitching in Crimson Red. This comes in harmony with the safety belts of the same color. The same Crimson Red stitching can be seen on the dashboard, gear shifter boot, center and door armrests as well as along the center console.

On the outside, the exterior is emphasized by Tornado Red brake calipers with RS 7 logo and 21-inch Gloss Black wheels. Carbon fiber is used for the splitter, diffuser and engine cover. Four exterior colors are available: Ibis White, Suzuka Gray metallic, Daytona Gray pearl, Phantom Black pearl.

A highlight here is the DRC system, which utilizes three-stage adjustable dampers. They are hydraulically cross-linked and integrated into the Audi drive select system. Combined with the standard rear sport differential they deliver maximum performance driving. Dynamic steering adapts the steering boost and ratio for more precise handling.

At the heart of the five-door coupe is the twin-turbo 4.0 Liter TFSI V8 engine. The unit generates 560 hp (412 kW). This launches the RS 7 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds. The car also is fuel efficient due to the use of innovative solutions. For instance thermal management and cylinder on demand enable the RS 7 to achieve a EPA estimated MPG of 16 city/27 highway/19 combined.

Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition has a starting price of $146,045 USD.

Source: Audi

April 16, 2014

Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo By Vorsteiner

Vorsteiner Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo is simply stunning! It has been completely refined and now exudes even more class and luxury. The engine under the hood of this beautiful car is the 3.6 litre twin-turbocharged flat-six one. It generates 480 horsepower (353 kW) and 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) of torque, and catapults the car from standstill to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds. The top speed here is 310 km/h (193 mph).

The additional enhancements by Vorsteiner include V-RT aerodynamics package, VSM-310 multi-piece forged wheels, as well as custom embroidered velour floor mats. At the front end of the Porsche, the aero kit adds a replaceable chin spoiler increasing the downforce as well as carbon fiber brake ducts which direct air to the rotors to maximize cooling during heavy braking.

At the rear, the kit enhances the car with a functional carbon composite rear deck lid/engine cover with twin ram air scoops. They feed air into the engine bay and air intake for optimum airflow and cooling. What is more, a carbon fiber wing blade rounds out the final appearance while increasing down force to the rear of the vehicle at high speeds.

Oh, we forgot to mention the unique wheels on which this 911 Edition runs. They are Vorsteiner’s Sport Multipiece Forged VSM-310 finished in Gloss Brushed Shadow and coming in sizes 20×9” at the front and 20×12” at the rear. Of course, the Michelin Pilot Super Sports complement them perfectly.

Vorsteiner Porsche 997 V-RT Edition 911 Turbo Details:

V-RT Edition 997 Aerodynamics Package:
- V-RT Front Bumper with Carbon Fiber Brake Ducts, Chin Spoiler and Grille Insert
- V-RT Carbon Fiber Side Intake Inlets
- V-RT Rear Wing with Integrated Twin Air Scoops
- V-RT Rear Bumper with Integrated Carbon Fiber Diffuser and Intercooler Shrouds
Interior:
- Porsche 997 4-piece Vorsteiner Embroidered Velour Floor Mats
Wheels:
- Sport Multipiece Forged VSM-310
- Wheel Finish: Gloss Brushed Shadow
- Wheel Size: 20x9J Front, 20x12J Rear
- Tire Size: 245/30/20, 325/25/20 Michelin Pilot Super Sports

Source: Vorsteiner

April 16, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Teases New AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT sports car is to thrill us this autumn when it is set to make its world premiere. The brand new vehicle will feature breath-taking design and supreme agility –qualities typacially found on the AMG GT. Furthermore, form Mercedes-Benz announced that the car is destined for a new segment. We don’t have any visuals of the exterior yet, but the company has released two images of the exclusive interior, which is adorned by red and black leather, carbon fiber and a range of new technologies.

The designers have put mainly their attention on the driving dynamics, agility and sportiness of the car. In fact, the new GT is the second sports car developed fully independently by Mercedes-AMG.

The sneak preview of the interior provides a good impression of what we are to expect. Inside, car’s design embodies emotion and sensuality. The uncompromising lines of the interior components define the concept of “modern luxury”.

The biggest impression however, makes the stylistic development of the central “aviation design” theme. The dashboard is wide and creates impression of a powerful wing. This design treatment is supported by the four central spotlight-style vents and the individual vents at the left and right ends of the dashboard.

The dominant centre console has a shape reminiscent of a NACA air intake and the employed materials suggest that it has been adopted directly from motor racing. The controls on the AMG DRIVE UNIT are arranged like eight cylinders in a V layout. All in all, the finest materials and outstanding workmanship contribute to the typical Mercedes luxury.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 16, 2014

1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 By RK Motors

1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 by RK Motors is to compete in 2014 HOT ROD Magazine Power Tour. It will take place between 7th and 14th of June. The exclusive car has just been teased with couple of images and we are definitely impatient to see it in all its glory. Behind the steering wheel will be Rob Kauffman.

In addition, RK Motors also disclosed that the redesigned vehicle is going to be officially unveiled at Charlotte’s celebration of Mustang’s 50th anniversary this Friday. RK527 is an 800-plus horsepower tribute car based on a 1967 Shelby GT500.

What was also revealed is that RK527 is loaded with extensive features and upgrades such as custom Jon Kaase Heads, Fast XFI ECU Port Fuel Injection, Billet Specialties drive system. Here are also present the new Bryant Billet Crankshaft, custom 3” Exhaust and Magnaflow mufflers, Custom Detroit Speed Alumaframe.

The powerful engine of the car is coupled with Tremec T56 6-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, other exclusive treatments include complete with coil-over shocks in the front and Detroit Speed quadra-link suspension in the rear, and massive Baer calipers and rotors. 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Tribute RK527 runs on Vintage HA Series 427 Shelby Wheels coupled with BF Goodrich G-Force Sport Tires.

Source: RK Motors

April 16, 2014

Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept Revealed!

Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept is undoubtedly the news of the day. Brand’s new SUV has just been unveiled in New York, presenting the vision of the future family of Discovery vehicles. The first production model of the new series is due in 2015. As one can see, the concept model previews dynamic new design language. In addition, Land Rover has also featured in it a wide range of innovative versatility and capability features as well as technologies.

A day ahead of the opening of the 2014 New York Auto Show the car was showcased at a spectacular event aboard the USS Intrepid – a sea, air and space experience centre – in Manhattan.

One of the new elements featured in the new DiscoveryVision Concept is its unique stepped roof. On the other hand, the advanced interior is not only spacious but features highly reconfigurable seating. Via touchscreen menu, the folding of the seats flat or their sliding forward or back can be monitored. The result is conversion of the vehicle from its standard seven-seat layout to a six-seat, five-seat or even a four-seat ‘limousine’ mode.

At the rear, the tailgate has been redesigned and incorporates a powered, single-piece design. The materials used in the Discovery Vision Concept interior feature two innovative types of washable and water- and oil-repellent Foglizzo leather. Wood veneer can be seen on the floors and instrument panel.

In terms of technologies, Land Rover has featured here the next-generation Human-Machine Interface (HMI) technology, Smart Glass, Remote Control Drive, Laser Referencing and many more. Visibility is greatly improved by the powerful, day-like light of the laser headlamps, which feature intelligent object tracking and beam-dipping.

In addition, the company has also added its next-generation Terrain Response, the innovative Transparent Bonnet head-up display system, cameras fitted below the grille are paired with the Head-Up Display integrated into the windscreen, Laser Terrain Scanning with infrared lasers, the All-Terrain Coach, the Wade Aid sensory system that measures the depth of water even before the car enters it and All-Terrain Progress Control.

Land Rover Discovery Vision Concept will definitely lead the brand to unexplored dimensions. We are impatiently waiting to see its production version.

Source: Land Rover

April 15, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova