Lidia Todorova – Page 175 – Automobiles Review

2015 Honda Fit Goes On Sale

2015 Honda Fit is bigger, more powerful and fuel efficient and goes on sale in less then a week. The car also features more refined and sporty dynamics, roofline spoiler, LED taillights, Bluetooth connectivity and rearview camera. All Fit models will feature the new 1.5-liter engine which generates 130 horsepower (96 kW) and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque. The estimated EPA fuel-economy rating of the new Fit is 33/41/36 (city/highway/combined).

The new Fit is more spacious and offers comfortable seating for five persons and the ability to carry voluminous cargo. The cabin interior features a 4.9 cubic feet increase in passenger volume and a 4.8-inch increase in rear seat leg room.

In addition, the car offers new chassis with longer wheelbase and numerous improvements to front and rear suspension and steering systems. The adoption of a new frame structure includes company’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) front body structure, which also delivers more safety performance.

2015 Fit also benefits from the included Earth Dreams Technology engine. It significantly increases power, torque and throttle response. In addition, it also supports two newly developed transmissions: the 6-speed manual and the CVT with G-Shift Control.

Under the hood the car is fitted with the 1.5L DOHC 4-cylinder engine with i-VTEC+VTC valve and timing control. It features direct fuel injection, reduced weight and friction, increased compression ratio. This results not only in the increase of horsepower, but also in the fuel efficiency ratings, which are listed in details below.

Inside, one can see a rich and sophisticated black with silver accented interior surfaces and controls, and blue backlit instrument dials. As an option, Honda offers Display Audio touchscreen interface and leather seating.

2015 Fit boasts wide range of technologies. For instance, standard features include auto on-off headlights, LED brake lights, Bluetooth 6HandsFreeLink and a center storage console with armrest. On the other hand, the available features offered here are the Smart Entry Push Button Start, aone-touch operated moonroof, 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio7 with next-generation HondaLink and heated leather seats.

Next, standard safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. The standard drive-assistive technologies are multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines and expanded view driver’s mirror.

2015 Honda Fit goes on sale at Honda dealerships on 14th of April. Detailed pricing is listed below.

TRIM	MSRP	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings (city/highway/combined)
Fit LX 6MT	$15,525	29/37/32
Fit LX CVT	$16,325	33/41/36
Fit EX 6MT	$17,435	29/37/32
Fit EX CVT	$18,235	32/38/35
Fit EX-L CVT	$19,800	32/38/35
Fit EX-L CVT with Navi	$20,800	32/38/35

Source: Honda

April 10, 2014

2015 Ford Focus And Focus Electric To Debut In New York

2015 Ford Focus is going to make its debut at next week’s New York International Auto Show. Two variations will debut at the show, namely – the Focus four-door sedan and the Focus Electric. In addition, Ford promises to showcase a new version of the performance Focus ST later this year. The new Focus has been redesigned and offers bolder exterior design, refined interior, host of new technologies and additional powertrain options.

In addition, the 2015 Focus also adds an SE Sport Package that includes paddle shifters for the automatic transmission versions, revised touring suspension, 17-inch black gloss aluminum wheels coupled with P215/50 HR-17 tires. The MyKey feature will be standard on all trim levels, while the heated steering wheel will be an option.

The new addition to the powertrain range is the 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine matched with a six-speed manual transmission. It is the smallest engine in Ford’s EcoBoost family and comes as a standard in Focus with an Auto Start-Stop feature.

Furthermore, the new Focus has been additionally insulated in order to offer quieter ride. It is equipped with thicker carpets and side window glass and improved engine-bay insulation.

The exterior of the car has been redesigned and now features restyled hood and grille, signature LED lighting for headlamps and taillamps, new rear lamp clusters and a restyled trunk lid. The new version will be offered in four- and five-door variants.

The interior of the model sports clean and contemporary. Inside, satin chrome detailing, new seat trims and switches, center console with adjustable cup holders are present. The technologies featured include rear view camera, available Blind Spot Information System and a lane-keeping system.

2015 Focus also benefits from suspension and chassis upgrades. These include new shock absorber valve design, change to the rear suspension and electric power-assisted steering.

Source: Ford

April 10, 2014

Bentley Unveils First Plug-in Hybrid Concept

Bentley Hybrid Concept is a preview of a powerful and efficient future car. It is the first Bentley plug-in hybrid model, which is set to be a dedicated version of the new SUV. The latter was teased last month with an image showing its grille and information for production plans, starting in 2016. The luxury company has also disclosed that the car will be available in dealerships in 2017. As for Bentley Hybrid Concept, it will be on display at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition on 20th of April.

As a matter of fact, Bentley is the first luxury brand to present a plug-in hybrid powertrain choice to the automotive sector. The plug-in hybrid system will offer a power increase of up to 25% together with a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Furthermore, the hybrid will be capable of driving at least 50 km on electric power alone. Bentley Hybrid Concept vehicle is built upon Mulsanne. We see copper used as an exterior and interior styling element. It also emphasizes car’s “electrical veins”.

This material can be seen on the headlamps, radiator shell bezel, brake calipers, feature line details and badges. Inside, copper accents are present on the inserts of the veneers fascias, switch bezels and instruments. At last, copper cross stitching to the Mulliner Driving Specification diamond-quilted interior rounds out the luxury design treatment.

Source: Bentley

April 10, 2014

Fiat Shows The Interior Of Upcoming 2015 Fiat 500

2015 Fiat 500 is going to make its world premiere at this year’s New York International Auto Show. The brand has just shown the first official images of car’s interior, which features numerous enhancements. They were made in order to increase driver convenience and ease of use. And instance is the featured advanced instrument panel with a 7-inch high-definition TFT cluster display.

The latter allows drivers to monitor important information like speed, fuel level, Eco index and trip information. On the main screen, one can see an image of the vehicle, which is surrounded by data such as distance traveled, gas mileage and range.

In addition, a parking screen helps drivers while moving in reverse if the vehicle is equipped with Rear Park Assist. Other screen options include a radio screen and a telephone screen. The Sport mode of the vehicle makes the TFT display “more aggressive”. Of course – in terms of appearance.

What was also disclosed by Fiat is that the TFT display will be standard on the 2015 Fiat 500 Sport, Lounge, Turbo and Abarth models, and optional on the Pop. Furthermore, the other interior updates include a redesigned center console, which now sports cup holder design.

Scarce information on the exterior has been released yet. What we have understood is that the new Fiat 500 will be available in several new paint colors: Giallo Moderna Perla (modern pearl yellow), Laser Blu (bright metallic blue) and Billet Argento (billet silver).

At last, the Fiat 500 lineup, Fiat 500 Abarth, Abarth Cabrio and Turbo will add an available six-speed automatic transmission. 2015 Fiat 500 lineup will be available at dealerships in July this year.

Source: Fiat

April 9, 2014

Honda To Show Two New Concepts In Beijing

Honda Beijing Concept model is going to take the stage at the Beijing Motor Show this month, Next to it, Honda has announced plans to debut one more concept vehicle as well as new production models for the Honda and Acura brands. The new concept, of which we have a teaser sketch, was exclusively developed for the Chinese market. The second concept vehicle to be exhibited is the new Spirior, which is a product of Dongfeng Honda.

Chinese premiere will have the new middle-class SUV and the third-generation Fit, which will be sold by Guangqi Honda. Production cars such as the Crosstour, Accord, Crider, Odyssey, City, CR-Z and Li Nian S1, CR-V, Civic, Elysion, Jade, Insight and CIIMO will be also displayed.

The teased concept shows a sporty looking coupe. Judging from the image we are also not sure about the size of the car. It appears to be a small coupe. The contemporary design is visible through the new muscular grille and the dramatic five-spoke wheels.

Acura will be also present at the show, making a premiere of the RLX hybrid model, equipped with SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD. This is high-efficiency and high-output hybrid system that realizes both outstanding driving performance and fuel economy. Also on display will be the NSX Concept, MDX, RDX and ILX.

Source: Honda

April 9, 2014

Audi Teases TT-Based Crossover Concept Ahead Of Beijing Debut

Audi TT-Based Crossover Concept is going to be the main star of the auto show in Beijing, where it will have its full reveal. The brand has just released three teaser sketches, which you can view below. The name of the model wasn’t revealed, but from what we can see from the pictures – it looks like the bigger sibling of the 2015 Audi TT.

It is visible that the new concept incorporates sleek styling and proportions. In these particular sketches, it is finished in provocative yellow color. And since lately this paint finish has become extremely popular, we are almost sure that it will debut dressed in it.

In fact, the car looks very much like Audi’s Allroad Shooting Brake, and if it is an evolution of it, we are also expecting that it will be powered by the same engine and deliver the same figures. Precisely, the Allroad Shooting Brake has a powerful 2.0-liter TFSI engine that 400 hp (294 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. It helps the car accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph.

As we can see from the third image, the car inside is a typical four-seater. What is interesting however is that it has the same dashboard with the new TT. More news to be released after concept’s official debut at the Beijing Motor Show, which starts on 20th of April.

Source: Audi

April 9, 2014

Seat Ibiza FR Edition Powered By 1.4 TSI ACT engine

Seat Ibiza FR Edition has just been introduced. The car is powered by the new 1.4 TSI ACT engine, which has four cylinders, and uses less amount of fuel. The powerplant also helps the car accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under eight seconds, while the fuel economy is rated at 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle. In fact, the 140 PS ACT petrol engine replaces the 150 PS 1.4 TSI non-ACT engine in the Ibiza range, thus delivering superior efficiency, and 30 g/km less CO2 – down to 109 g/km.

The unit is mated to a manual transmission only. As a matter of fact, the Ibiza FRs which utilize the ACT engine sit above the standard FR in the Ibiza range. Furthermore, the usual FR specification adds red seatbelts, red brake callipers, titanium-coloured 17-inch alloy wheels, matching coloured door mirrors, climate control and dark tinted rear windows.

1.4 TSI engine uses an Active Cylinder Technology, which shuts off the second and third cylinders at low engine speeds and when low torque outputs are required. It does so seamlessly, and conversely it will re-activate the cylinders in unnoticeably when more torque is required. The transition between two- and four cylinders takes less than 40 milliseconds, and the system can save up to one litre of fuel over 60 miles of careful urban driving.

Seat Ibiza FR Edition is available in SC and five-door body styles. On the other hand, the 1.4 TSI ACT is available in standard FR trim in all three body styles: SC, five-door and ST.

Source: Seat

April 9, 2014

Mini Cooper S by Cam Shaft

Mini Cooper S by Cam Shaft has a completely changed visual identity. The main reason for this is the applied foil wrapping that the specialists at the tuning company Cam Shaft has done on the popular model. In addition to it, the tuners have also performed an engine optimization and now the car is capable of delivering nearly 60 hp more power.

Mini Cooper S has been subjected to a two color complete wrapping. Up to the waistline it was decided in shiny orange with pearl effect. The colons, roof and chrome parts were made in glossy black. The flared wheel arches got a mat black contrast.

The serial Mini can produce up to 184 hp (135 kW). With the help of the specialists at PP performance, Cam Shaft upgraded the power of the car via software optimization and the result is 240 horsepower (176 kW).

In addition, what also has been done here are the modified the air inlet with sports air filter, complete new exhaust system including sports cat, down pipe and valve commanded axle back exhaust with remote control.

In terms of driving dynamics, this MINI now boasts V2 KW coilovers, which reduce the rolling inclination in sharp bends, and a really predestined for the Mini tire-wheel-combination. The latter comprises of very light and glossy black powder coated ATS aluminum rims in the dimension of 7,5×17” fitted with Toyo semi slicks in size of 215/45-17.

Source: Miranda Media

April 8, 2014

2015 Dodge Challenger And Charger To Be Revealed In New York

2015 Dodge Challenger and 2015 Dodge Charger will deliver a sleeker and more modern appearance, when they debut at the New York Auto Show on 17th of April. The brand will introduce both models just ahead of the summer celebration of its 100th anniversary. By far, Dodge didn’t reveal many details about the car, except for a teaser image showing partially what happens behind the wheel.

Therefore we will have to wait for their official reveal. Nevertheless, Dodge disclosed that the Challenger is inspired by its classic predecessor and has been redesigned inside and out. The model also will feature new powertrain combination.

The most-successful four-door muscle car, namely 2015 Dodge Charger will also make a debut in New York. This model has received full-body makeover with nearly every single body panel being resculpted.

Obviously, for its 100th anniversary Dodge is focusing on the future and aims to deliver vehicles that are exciting to drive. Such instances are the recently reintroduced Shaker hood as well as the special 100th anniversary editions of the Charger and Challenger that have unique exteriors and interiors.

Source: Dodge

April 8, 2014

Skoda Introduces SE Business Range

Skoda SE Business range of vehicle has just been launched. The 2014 suite of vehicles offers comprehensive specifications, class-leading space and versatility. The cars have been specifically tailored to suit business applications. Skoda is offering a choice of 19 stylish variants from the Octavia and Superb hatch and Estate to Yeti Outdoor off-road crossover model.

The SE Business line-up is equipped with package that comprises of state-of-the-art technology and safety equipment, next to ‘Amundsen’ touchscreen satellite navigation system with DAB radio, Bluetooth, dual zone air conditioning and cruise control, ESP, driver and passenger airbags and ABS.

Furthermore, the fuel economy of the vehicles has been enhanced by the introduction of stop/start system and low rolling resistance tyres. Two highly-efficient 1.6 and 2.0-litre TDI CR DPF diesel engines are available. These include the GreenLine II and III powerplants which deliver CO2 emissions as low as 85g/km with an impressive combined fuel consumption estimated at 88.3 mpg.

Skoda SE Business range:

Model	mpg g/km	CO2
Octavia hatch SE Business
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF	74.3	99
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DSG	72.4	102
1.6 TDI CR 110PS DPF GreenLine III	88.3	85
2.0 TDI CR 150PS DPF	68.9	106
2.0 TDI CR 150PS DSG DPF	62.8	119

Octavia Estate SE Business
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF	74.3	99
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DSG DPF	70.6	104
1.6 TDI CR 110PS DPF GreenLine III	88.3	85
2.0 TDI CR 150PS DPF	67.3	110
2.0 TDI CR 150PS DSG DPF	62.8	119

Superb hatch SE Business
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF GreenLine III	67.3	109
2.0 TDI CR 140PS DPF	61.4	119
2.0 TDI CR 140PS DSG DPF	54.3	135

Superb Estate SE Business
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF GreenLine III	65.7	113
2.0 TDI CR 140PS DPF	61.4	119
2.0 TDI CR 140PS DSG DPF	54.3	137

Yeti Outdoor SE Business
1.6 TDI CR 105PS DPF GreenLine II	61.4	119
2.0 TDI CR 140PS 4×4 DPF	48.7	152
2.0 TDI CR 140PS 4×4 DSG DPF	44.8	164

Source: Skoda

April 8, 2014

Ford Reveals S-MAX Vignale Concept

Ford S-MAX Vignale Concept has been unveiled today in Milan. The new model follows the introduction of the Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept and just like it expresses the premium design, craftsmanship, and exclusivity. In addition, Ford also announced that a production version of the Mondeo Vignale will be available to customers next year followed by a production S-MAX Vignale.

S-MAX Vignale Concept runs on 21-inch Vignale alloy wheels with fine detailing and high quality finish. The car also boasts jewellery-like appliques and chrome mirror caps, distinctive hexagonal Vignale grille design; and unique “Milano Grigio” paint colour.

The car is decided in “Milano Grigio” paint finish, while Dark Rose Grey detailing is to be found in the exhausts, hexagonal air-vent surrounds, and the lower front fascia. The grille features a darker matt metallic finish with polished aluminium surround.

Inside, Vignale-embossed seating with hexagonal quilting and high-quality and soft-touch leather enhanced with woven texture-embossed aluminium detailing is present. Some of the technology highlights include advanced car-to-car communications, tablet device-docking stations for second row seats and an intelligent flexible seating concept with thin seat technology.

Leather extends from the dashboard and instrument panel to sweep past the glass roof to the rear luggage compartment in a single colour that creates a lounge-like environment. The seats feature quilting effect which we have first seen in the Mondeo Vignale Concept.

Source: Ford

April 8, 2014

Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet by Porsche Exclusive

Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet by Porsche Exclusive is a demo vehicle which we have just found at Porsche’s official Facebook page. The brand has published scarce information about the car, but we were delighted to see more than just one picture, which you can view below. The project by Porsche Exclusive is stunning and immediately catches the eye. At first glance, one can see the contrast between the Slate Grey paint job and the red interior.

The 911 Turbo Cabriolet has been fitted with Bi-Xenon main headlights finished in black. They include Porsche’s Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and headlight cleaning system painted. In addition, the powerful exterior presence of this vehicle is further reinforced by the 20-inch 911 Turbo wheels on which it runs. They are painted in high-gloss black.

Furthermore, the company has decided to personalize this cabrio even more by giving it personalised door sill guards made of carbon fiber. But this was not enough for the designers so they decided to illuminate them.

Inside, the interior is wrapped in Garnet Red leather and features decorative stitching in contrasting black. In fact, Porsche have added here its PCM package which comprises of air vents in leather and centre console trim in carbon fiber.

2014 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet made an official debut at Los Angeles Auto Show in November last year. As a matter of fact, it is the most expensive Porsche one can order with a price tag of $193,900 USD.

The car is powered by a 3.8 liter turbocharged flat-six engine, generating up to 560 horsepower (412 kW). It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 314 km/h (195 mph). The combined fuel consumption in accordance with EU 6 is 9.7 l/100km, while the CO2 emissions are estimated at 227 g/km. s

Source: Porsche via Facebook

April 7, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova