Lidia Todorova – Page 174 – Automobiles Review

Buick Exports Redesigned 2014 Enclave To China

2014 Buick Enclave is company’s latest luxury crossover which is going to be introduced to the Chinese market as well. The model has been redesigned and offers luxury experience mixed with advanced technologies and rough appearance. In addition, the three-row luxury crossover features fresh styling, new safety technologies, in-vehicle connectivity and delivers refined driving experience.

The vehicle has been built on the sound base of the 2013 model year version and adds more safety features such as available camera-based Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, along with front center side air bag system which protects drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes.

2014 Enclave is driven by 3.6L V-6 engine which includes fuel-saving direct injection technology and continuously variable valve timing. The powerplant is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. The V-6 produces 288 horsepower (212 kW) and 366 Nm (270 lb.-ft.) of torque, and also offers good efficiency. EPA fuel economy estimates of 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models.

Enclaves can be ordered with FWD and AWD configurations. The intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system provides enhanced traction on slippery roads by actively managing the torque distribution between the front and rear axles.

2014 Buick Enclave has a 118.9-inch (3,021 mm) long wheelbase, 67.3-inch (1,709 mm) wide front track and 67.1-inch (1,704 mm) rear track. There is 23.3 cubic feet (660 liters) of cargo space behind the third row and a maximum of 115.2 cubic feet (3,263 liters) of cargo space available behind the front row of seats.

Source: Buick

April 15, 2014

Nissan Previews 2015 Murano Ahead Of Official Premiere [VIDEO]

2015 Nissan Murano is going to make its official first world appearance in New York tomorrow. However, Nissan decided to reveal pictures and data about the car. The new SUV shows some dramatic characteristics in terms of design and in fact is almost concept-like. In addition, the premium interior adds style and spaciousness and well as offers advanced technologies. The third generation Murano shows company’s new design direction.

The exterior enhancements are visible through the V-motion front as well as the LED boomerang lights at the front and the rear, and the unique “floating” roof. As an option Nissan is offering LED headlights and Power Panoramic Moonroof.

The premium interior is spacious enough and has refined lower-height instrument panel, wide center console, advanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating. In addition, to make the driving experience cozier, Nissan has added customizable advanced lighting system.

At the front and rear the passengers will enjoy leather-appointed seats with high-speed heating. In addition, the technologies featured here icnlude rear seat USB port, Advanced Drive-Assist Display with 7.0-inch display, 8.0-inch multi-touch control screen, available NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps, SiriusXM Radio, SiriusXM Travel Link, 11-speaker Bose premium audio system, and Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System.

At the heart of 2015 Murano is the 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine. It produces 260 horsepower (191 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque, and is coupled with an advanced Xtronic transmission. All trim levels of the model will be offered with available front-wheel drive or Intuitive All-Wheel Drive.

Safety and security systems include Moving Object Detection (MOD), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Forward Emergency Braking and Cross Traffic Alert (CTA).

2015 Nissan Murano will be offered in four trim levels: S, SV, SL and Platinum, and will go on sale by the end of this year.

2015 Nissan Murano Dimensions and Specifications:

Drive Configuration: Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 260 horsepower (191 kW) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque
Valvetrain: 4 valves per cylinder with Continuously Variable valve Timing Control System (CVTCS)
Induction System: Nissan Induction Control System (NICS)
Bore x Stroke (mm): 95.5 x 81.4
Compression Ratio (:1): 10.3
Spark Plugs: Double-tipped platinum with chrome finishers
Maximum Engine Speed: 6,600 rpm
Engine Mounts: 6-point
Recommended Fuel: Unleaded regular
Emissions Certification: Tier2Bin5 (EPA)/LEV3-ULEV70 (CARB)
Exhaust: Dual tailpipes with finishers
EPA Fuel Economy: Not available at this time
Transmission: Advanced Xtronic transmission
Wheels/Tires:
- 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels / 235/65R18 tires
- 20-inch aluminum alloy / 235/55R20 tires
Suspension: Lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension – independent strut front, multi-link rear
Wheelbase: 111.2 inches
Length: 192.4 inches 2
Width: 75.4 inches
Height: 66.5 inches
Tread Width: 64.6 inches
Min. ground clearance: 6.9 inches
Angle of Approach: 13.8 degrees
Angle of Departure: 15.8 degrees
Breakover Angle: 24.4 degrees
Coefficient of drag: 0.31
Headroom – front/rear
Without moonroof: 39.9/39.8 inches
With moonroof: 38.1/37.8 inches
Legroom – front/rear: 40.5/38.7 inches
Hip room – front/rear: 55.4/55.2 inches
Shoulder room – front/rear: 59.5/58.8 inches

httpv://youtu.be/dU9TDYfk8Q4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

April 15, 2014

2014 Citroen DS 6WR Debuts In Beijing

2014 Citroen DS 6WR officially debuted at the Beijing Motor Show adding an SUV in the DS powerful range. It is inspired by the Wild Rubis concept that was unveiled last year at Auto Shanghai. In fact this is Citroen’s first production SUV and next to the DS 5LS, makes the next stage in the development of DS in China. The car was originally designed in Paris and features original body lines combined with the powerful presence and sophisticated design cues of the DS line-up.

This SUV is 4.55m long, 1.86m wide and 1.61m tall and also offers very long wheelbase of 2.73m. In addition, it runs on 19-inch wheels and features Grip Control. This technology enhances traction on all types of terrain without a four-wheel drive system. What is more, it also reduces both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

DS 6WR is driven by either the e-THP 160 or THP 200 engine. They feature sequential direct injection with a high-pressure pump and Twin Scroll type turbocharger. In addition, each of them is coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Some of the elegant exterior highlights of the DS 6WR are the unique chrome-finish side signature, the aluminium bars and the sculpted lines of the rear wing. At the front, is positioned a new grille, which is attractive and features sculptural design. It is called “DS Wings”, inspired by the two chrome-finish wings connecting it to the headlamps.

The modern look of the grill is additionally enhanced by the DS logo positioned on it. It also features incisive light signature with DRLs in a tuning-fork layout and Xenon technology. At the rear, the lights are built into the wraparound tailgate. The latter is underlined at the base by a chrome finish with a twin exhaust.

2014 Citroen DS 6WR will make its debut at the end of the year in China and will probably be introduced in other countries. Citroen will also introduce another China built model in the upcoming months.

Source: Citroen

April 15, 2014

CRP Racing Team Competes With Audi R8 LMS ultra

Audi R8 LMS ultra was shown in the beginning of the month, when it participated in the qualification race for the 42nd running of the Nürburgring 24 Hours. Now, Audi customer-racing continues to add new teams with the announcement that CRP Racing is joining the fold. The team competed in the Pirelli World Challenge (PWC) at the Long Beach race.

Behind the steering wheel was James Sofronas who defended his title in the GT class. He also welcomed the talented GMG newcomer Andrew Palmer, to the GT category.

As a matter of fact, the number of Audi R8 LMS customer race teams continues to grow in Pirelli World Challenge. The reason for this is the attractiveness of the global GT3 specification. In addition, there is an emphasis of supporting the teams by the Audi of America customer-racing program.

CRP Racing has received great support from Audi and this is one of the key reasons for the team to switch to the R8 LMS ultra. The team made its Audi R8 LMS ultra debut in Long Beach this weekend with Mike Skeen behind the wheel.

Audi R8 LMS ultra comes with carbon fiber reinforced plastic doors, high-energy absorbing new crash foams, new PS1 safety seat and updated transmission. It delivers up to 570 horsepower (419 kW) and higher torque at lower engine speeds. It also sports larger engine oil cooler and transmission fluid cooler, enlarged air vents and optimized brake cooling at the front wheels.

Source: Audi

April 14, 2014

Chevrolet To Show 2015 Cruze In New York

2015 Chevrolet Cruze will debut at the New York International Auto Show. It will show there its revised exterior and interior, as well as a range of technologies introduced for the first time. Some of them include new Text Message Alerts, Apple Siri integration and OnStar 4G LTE with available Wi-Fi hotspot. As one can see from the pictures, the new Cruze features an exterior appearance inspired by the Impala and restyled Malibu. It will come in four trim levels: LS, LT, RS and LTZ.

Just like the Impala and Malibu, the facelifted Cruze feature prominent dual-port front fascia. The latter incorporates LED daytime running lamps on LT and LTZ trims. They complement the Cruze’s swept-back headlamps. Several new exterior and interior colors will also be added. The updates on the interior include revised cupholders, trunk release relocated to the center console and door lock switches relocated from the center console to the front doors.

2015 Cruze lineup includes Cruze Eco and Cruze Diesel, both delivering 151 horsepower (111 kW) and 358 Nm (264 lb-ft) of torque. In terms of safety feature, the car includes 10 standard air bags including side-impact and knee air bags for front passengers, side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear park assist and a rearview camera.

New for the model is the enhanced connectivity which is possible via the new Text Message Alerts feature for smartphone users with Bluetooth profile. This technology reads incoming texts through the vehicle’s speakers. In addition, there is also included Siri Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6 and iOS 7 users that enables voice-controlled connectivity.

Additional standard and available features in the 2015 Cruze include seven-inch-diagonal color touch screen and additional USB ports, OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, OnStar and MyLink enhancements with natural language voice recognition, available Chevrolet AppShop and navigation.

2015 Chevrolet Cruze will go on sale this autumn.

Source: Chevrolet

April 14, 2014

Chevrolet Introduces 2015 Corvette Z06 Convertible

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible is already a fact. Its coupe sibling was introduced in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Both models are the most track-capable Corvettes in Chevrolet’s line-up of vehicles. Both can offer up to 625 horsepower (466 kW) and 861 Nm (635 lb-ft) of torque. They are built on brand’s new aluminum structure that is 20 percent stiffer than the previous one. Also common for the both versions of the Z06 is the curb weight, chassis, powertrain output, driver technologies and equipment options.

The difference is in the electronic top that can be dropped remotely via key fob. The top is made from thick fabric and customers can chose it in four different colors. Chevrolet has also installed here sound-absorbing padding and a glass rear window. Behind the seat backs the designers have installed dual accent panels in either Carbon Flash-painted or exposed carbon fiber.

Like the coupe, the Z06 convertible runs on Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires in size P285/30ZR19 at the front and 335/25ZR20 at the rear. They are coupled with spin-cast aluminum wheels in the dimensions of 19 x 10 inches and 20 x 12 at the front and rear, respectively.

To deliver best performance, the standard Z06 includdes a front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and rear spoiler. Chevrolet also offers available carbon-fiber aero package. It comprises of carbon fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill. The package is available in black or a visible carbon-fiber finish. Another option comes via the available Z07 package. This one adds larger winglets to the front splitter and see-through center section on the rear spoiler.

The new Corvett features wider and lower appearance. At the front one can see Stingray’s taillamp assemblies, unique grille with dedicated brake-cooling intakes and wider grille outlets on the bottom that serve as air diffusers.

Inside, the car features steel-reinforced grab bar on the center console, soft-touch materials on the edge of the console, and two seating choices: a GT seat and a Competition Sport seat. The interior is fully wrapped in Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and micro-suede, depending on the trim and purchased options. It also includes a flat-bottom steering wheel with a carbon fiber center spoke. Corvette Z06 Convertible offers five interior colors – two unique to Z06 – blue and dark gray.

As the coupe, the cabrio is driven by the LT4 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine. As stated, tit generates at least 625 horsepower (466 kW) and 635 lb-ft of torque (861 Nm). The engine also features direct injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing. Transmission options include the standard seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match and the otional 8L90 eight-speed paddle-shift automatic one.

The technologies in the Z06 Coupe and Convertible include SLA-type front and rear suspension design, Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers, standard Driver Mode Selector and smart electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD).

Source: Chevrolet

April 14, 2014

2015 Nissan Versa Sedan Debuts In New York

2015 Nissan Versa Sedan is to debut on Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show. The same day it will go on sale across the United States. At the show, Nissan is also to premiere the brand new Murano. The improvements for the 2015 model year feature new front and rear fascias, a range of interior refinements, and new grade level and packaging content. The enhanced car will be available in four trims: Versa Sedan S, Versa Sedan S Plus, Versa Sedan SV and Versa Sedan SL.

The most prominent change here is the front end treatment. It features larger headlights, redesigned front fascia and standard chrome plating on the grille. Adding to this are the following exterior upgrades: new fog light finisher design, side mirror designs for SV and SL trim levels, integrated turn signals for SL and refined rear fascia design. In addition, the new Versa runs on 15-inch V-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels.

Inside, the five-passenger model offers comfort and refinement. Interior improvements include a new center stack shape, a revised meter display with white LED display, new steering wheel with standard audio, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System controls, optional AM/FM/CD audio system with standard auxiliary-in and Radio Data System (RDS), standard assist grips, a passenger-side vanity mirror and new seat fabric.

Furthermore, the customers will enjoy technologies such as NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps system. They can order them with the SL Technology Package, which also includes a 5.8-inch color touch-screen display, Nissan Voice Recognition for audio and navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link.

The car is powered by 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine. It produces 109 horsepower (80 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. The power plant can be mated to three transmissions: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic or Xtronic with D-mode step shift programming.

In terms of fuel economy, 2015 Nissan Versa Sedan is rated at 31 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 35 mpg combined, when it is equipped with the Xtronic transmission. Those models which have the 5-speed manual transmission offer 27 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined. At last, the cars with the 4-speed automatic are rated at 26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined.

Source: Nissan

April 14, 2014

Mercedes-Benz ML63 Wide Body R By Expression Motorsport [VIDEO]

Mercedes-Benz ML63 Wide Body R by Expression Motorsport is a project we must review. The iconic ML63 model of the German brand has been tuned in order to deliver enhanced racing aesthetics and performance on the track. The vehicle has been carefully customized with carbon fiber parts, includes new LED lights and wheels and more importantly features a wide body kit which makes it even more aggressive.

Firstly, the tuners added larger openings in the front bumper. They help the engine get a better cooling. Carbon fiber has been used for the new inserts and front spoiler lip, thus giving this Mercedes-Benz better racing capabilities and more muscular stance.

Furthermore, the front bumper set features LED daytime running lights. A wide body kit was then mounted and it includes a set of fender flares comprising of 10 pieces and including air intakes.

This modification has allowed the specialists at Expression Motorsport to mount wider wheels in the size of 23″. Another benefit from the kit is the added lower suspension. A carbon fiber rear diffuser with F1 brake light combined with the double twin tip exhaust rounds out the entire modification of the vehicle.

httpv://youtu.be/d9TRsg3aYJ4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Expression Motorsport

April 11, 2014

Mopar Customizes 2014 Jeep Cherokee

2014 Jeep Cherokee has been fully customized by Mopar. The latter brand offers more than 100 parts and accessories with the aim to deliver unique vision for every Cherokee driver. The new version of this Jeep was introduced in the beginning of last year at the New York Motor Show. Its exterior was much different and combined aggressive and bold design. Take a look at the curved griller, thin headlights and entirely redesigned front hood.

Mopar offers now versatile product range that enhances the appeal and practicality of the vehicle. Some of the products include chrome mirrors, Mopar Web, Mopar Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS) and even a pet carrier.

The customization company also provides available accessories to help owners make the most of the Jeep Cargo Management System (JCMS). Precisely, the universal module rack is mounted on the driver’s side of the rear cargo area and includes hooks, removable first-aid kit, Trailhawk Off-Road Accessory Kit, Roadside Safety Kit, storage tote, collapsible cooler and more.

Here is the list of selected Mopar parts and accessories available for the 2014 Jeep Cherokee: Rock rails, multiple lifestyle racks and carriers, Mopar Web, Mopar EVTS, chrome mirror, pet carrier matte black hood decal, premium carpet mat, door-sill guard, front and rear splash guards, JCMS Trailhawk bag, JCMS Roadside Assistance Bag, JCMS Cooler, JCMS Storage Locker and JCMS Cargo Mat Bag.

Source: Jeep

April 11, 2014

2015 Lexus NX Range Revealed Ahead Of Beijing Debut

2015 Lexus NX exclusive range has just been revealed ahead of its official debut that it is going to make at the Beijing Motor Show in less than 10 days. The line-up has been teased a week ago. However, Lexus did not say much about what the car will boast. Now, we not only have the images of the 2015 Lexus NX F Sport and 2015 Lexus NX 300h, but we have also been provided with some substantial details around those two.

The sharply styled compact luxury crossover is Lexus’ entry into the mid-size SUV market. It has been based on the LF-NX Concept and looks as stylish and edgy as it. Its striking design is complemented by high-end technologies and luxury treatment.

In fact, NX has been designed to look as though it is has been cast from a single piece of metal. Its muscular appearance is achieved via the strong, flared wheel arches that house 17 or 18-inch wheels. As in the concept, brand’s signature spindle grille is the main focus here. It has been reinforced by LED headlamps and daytime running lights.

At the sides, the vehicle has a roofline that’s set towards the rear of the vehicle. Details here include an innovative door mirror design and a world-first door handle mechanism with a concealed key barrel and integrated lighting. At the rear, one can see L-shape combination lamps, fitted with LED lighting. The design also echoes the spindle grille treatment at the front.

Inside, Lexus NX looks more like a sports car. The highlights here include thick-rimmed sports steering wheel and contrasting trims. The driver will also enjoy intuitive interaction with the controls, instrumentation and HMI technology.

The company announced that the NX range will utilize a highly efficient petrol-electric hybrid engine in the NX 300h; a Lexus-first 2.0-litre petrol turbo in the NX 200t; and a naturally aspirated petrol unit in the NX 200. Of course, customers will have the option to choose it front or all-wheel drive.

Some of the technologies that are going to be featured include: Lexus-first wireless charging tray; Lexus Remote Touch Interface with a touch pad control; Panoramic View Monitor; comprehensive multi-information display with a Lexus-first G-sensor; head-up display; Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

2015 Lexus NX’s additional list of specifications and powertrains will be announced ahead of the vehicle going on sale towards the end of this year.

Source: Lexus

April 11, 2014

Vorsteiner BMW F32 435i Alpine White

Vorsteiner BMW F32 435i Alpine White is the latest powerful creation of the California-based tuning company. There’s not much don on this BMW, but still – it makes us admire how simple modification can entirely transform the presence of the car. The latest 2014 model of the F32 was introduced in June last year. It captured with its head-turning and typical BMW design.

As a matter of fact, this particular 435i is equipped with a 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol unit that generates 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. This means that the car effortlessly accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.3 seocnds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

After the tuning performed by Vorsteiner, this stunning Alpine White BMW 435i now runs on Flow Forged V-FF 101 wheels finished in Matte Black. Of course, they were then fitted with 20×8.5” tyres at the front and 20×10” at the rear.

Vorsteiner’s latest in Lightweight Flow Forged Alloy Technology brings quality performance and keeps the car low in weight. This means that they add exceptional strength to the weight ratio. Enjoy the pictures below!

Source: Vorsteiner

April 11, 2014

MINI DeLux By Alex Coyle With Premiere In New York

MINI DeLux by Alex Coyle is the winning design of the “MINI Originals” design-contest, which will have its premiere at next week’s New York International Auto Show. The car has been created in order to support the launch of the new MINI Hardtop and is based on it. Alex Coyle’s blacklight-influenced MINI will be produced in a limited run of 56 examples, and will be available for purchase across the United States.

The contest began in November last year, when the brand asked past and present MINI owners to submit a video or photo about what features of the new MINI Hardtop they will like to see before the third generation of the iconic car arrives at dealerships this spring. There were more than 800 submissions, of which nine winners were selected.

Alex Coyle’s “DeLux” design package was selected by the MINI community as the winner. Coyle is a sophomore, who studies creative advertising and photography at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA. He was inspired by light and designed her MINI Originals package, which obviously stands out at night.

As a matter of fact, in Latin “lux” means “light”. Coyle says that after going through all the options she had available to customize the car, she created what she calls a “Deluxe” model. The result was the “DeLux” design package.

Source: MINI

April 10, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova