Lidia Todorova – Page 184 – Automobiles Review

Hyundai Previews New Sonata [TEASER]

Hyundai has just released a shadowy teaser image showing the new Sonata. The car is going to be launch very soon in Korea later this year, where it will make its world debut. United States will see the car during the New York International Auto Show in April.

The upcoming mid-size sedan is going to have a rear-drive as brand’s Genesis, which was on display in Detroit. Of course, Hyundai retains it emblematic design language and continues to impress with the “fluidic sculpture”, which is visible even in this render.

The new Sonata will feature softer lines, aggressive hexagonal grille with a chrome surround and horizontal slats and redesigned headlights. The brand uses the term “Inner Force” to describe car’s design, which directs to the fact that the redesigned sedan is reborn with an evolved aesthetic force that stems from purpose and sophistication.

Inside, the interior was refined too. High quality materials were utilized in order to deliver the ultimate luxury. The new Sonata will be also equipped with the intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI) with a high-mounted infotainment screen.

In terms of safety, the car sports more high-strength steel and more structural reinforcements, seven airbags, and redesigned chassis for better protection. Unfortunately, Hyundai hasn’t released any information about the powertrains of the new Sonata or whether there will be ay updates.

Source: Hyundai

March 5, 2014

Jaguar XE Is Brand’s New Premium Sports Sedan

Jaguar XE is the production name of brand’s new premium Sports Sedan which will be equipped with the ‘Ingenium’ engine family and will sport an advanced aluminium construction. The engine family comprises of premium, lightweight, low-friction, low emission four-cylinder petrol and diesel units and the first the Ingenium range will be utilized in the mid-sized Jaguar XE.

The car will be unveiled later this year, and for now we have to satisfy our curiosity with the image of the front of the XE, which Jaguar released alongside the news. In addition, the models will also be the first product from the new advanced aluminium architecture. The latter was shown in the C-X17 concept car.

XE’s global production will start in 2015. The car will bring about more lightness and stiffness for unbeatable handling, performance, refinement and efficiency. Or to say it differently, in this car, the engine and aluminium chassis complement each other perfectly.

Engine’s design will be suited for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. In addition, they will be both efficient and powerful. Jaguar promises to offer a top speeds for the XE of over 300km/h (186mph), and emissions lower than 100g of CO2 per km.

Jaguar XE is positioned alongside the XF and XJ saloons in the range. XE technical and range details will be unveiled later this year.

Source: Jaguar

March 4, 2014

McLaren 650S Spider Joins 650S Coupe In Geneva World Debut

The open top McLaren 650S Spider is currently sharing a world premiere with the 650S Coupe at the Geneva Motor Show. The brand has also released images and full information for the convertible version of its latest model.

650S Spider offers the same performance, handling and driver enjoyment as its coupe sibling, but adds a two-piece retractable hard top. At the event, the car is shown in Tarocco Orange, which is a new paint finish added to the McLaren colour collection.

The convertible is mechanically identical to the 650S Coupe and is fitted with the McLaren M838T twin turbo V8 engine. It generates 650 hp (478 kW) and 678 Nm (500 lb ft). Therefore the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is (no surprise) 3.0 seconds – absolutely identical to the Coupe veriosn, while the 0-200 km/h (124 mph) sprint is reached in 8.6 seconds, only additional 0.2 seconds in comparison wit the coupe.

Maximum speed is 329 km/h mph (204 mph) and the fuel consumption and emissions are the same as with the coupe – 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100km) on the EU combined cycle and 275 g/km of CO2.

At the heart of the McLaren 650S is the carbon fibre MonoCell chassis that needs no additional strengthening or reinforcing. It lends the 650S Spider identical handling and ride, and virtually identical straight-line performance figures. The overall weight of the “cabrio” is 1,370 kg (dry). This makes 40 kg over the Coupe added from the Retractable Hard Top and roof mechanism.

The two-piece Retractable Hard Top automatically raises or lowers in less than 17 seconds. In addition, this Spider uses a heated glass rear window, operating independently of the roof. With the roof down, the rear window acts as a wind deflector, reducing cabin buffeting.

An interesting highlight regarding the 650S models is that their interior is not stripped-off, which is typical for the motorsport cars. Instead, the 650S Coupé and 650 Spider models are fitted with a high level of luxury equipment as standard.

For instance, carbon ceramic brakes sit behind unique ‘650’ lightweight alloy wheels. The latter are fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Other standard equipment features include IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in Europe (or SIRIUS satellite radio in North America), wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control. The entire cabin is fully trimmed in Alcantara.

McLaren 650S Spider Technical Specifications:

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
Engine PS / rpm	650 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	678 / 6000	Height (mm)	1203
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1370 / 3020
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell with Aluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Carbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 / Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

McLaren 650S Spider Performance Data:

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight (with lightweight options)	485 PS (478 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.42 g/km per PS

Speed	Maximum speed	329 km/h (204 mph)

Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.0 s
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	8.6 s
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	26.5 s
	0-400 m / ¼ mile	10.6 @ 222 km/h (138 mph)

Braking	Braking	100-0 km/h 30.7 m (101 ft)
		200-0 km/h 124 m (407 ft)
		300-0 km/h 273 m (896 ft)

Source: McLaren

March 4, 2014

Lexus Shows RC F GT3 Concept In Geneva

Racing fans around the world will be excited to know that Lexus is introducing the RC F GT3 Concept in Geneva. The motorsport car is based on the recently revealed RC F performance coupe, which also makes a global debut at the show.

RC F GT3 was specifically developed to meet Group GT3 international racing standards. This means that it weighs 2,755.8 lbs. and comes with a modified version of the V8 engine (found in the coupe). The unit delivers maximum output that exceeds 540 horsepower (397 kW).

Lexus also stated that it will supply GT3-compliant vehicles to racing teams in the beginning of 2015. The model is scheduled to undergo testing this year. In other words, in 2015 we will probably see the GT3 concepts racing at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race in Germany and the Super Taikyu Endurance and Super GT series in Japan.

Lexus RC F GT3 Concept Specifications:

Length	4,705 mm/ 185.2 in
Width	2,000 mm/78.7 in
Height	1,270 mm/50 in
Weight	1,250 kg/2,755.8 lbs
Wheelbase	2,730 mm/107.5 in
Engine	V8 gasoline engine
Horsepower	540+ hp (397 kW)

Source: Lexus

March 4, 2014

Volkswagen T-ROC Previews Possible Future SUV Design Treatment

Volkswagen T-ROC Concept makes its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle showcases a new possible SUV range design with progressive design, front section with the LED headlights and two removable roof halves.

In fact, the T-ROC is a Golf-format concept car, which is positioned a step down from the Tiguan model. The new design treatment is in terms of exterior and interior style. The two-door SUV features an all-wheel drive, but still offers the “summery airiness of a convertible”.

Precisely, the middle section of the roof comprises of two halves. They can be taken off easily and then put in the boot. Other features here include front and rear cameras. The concept model is driven by 184 hp (135 kW) turbo-diesel direct injection engine, and also offers three different driving modes: Street, Off-road and Snow.

The powertrain is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), thanks to which the SUV returns 4.9 l/100 km of fuel consumption. The maximum torque is estimated at 380 Nm (280 lb-ft). Other exclusive features include 4Motion drive train, ABS, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control.

The design of the body of the vehicle is on the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB), and also features lightweight construction. The result is a weight of just 1,420 kg. Visually striking elements in this concept include relatively short overhangs and the multi-part 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 245/45 tyres.

Source: Volkswagen

March 4, 2014

Debut For Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype

Another exclusive premiere in Geneva is making the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype. The vehicle previews a new production model scheduled to be introduced in early 2015. The car takes full advantage of the ultra-rigid construction typical for the 4C and also is built with an extensive use of carbon fiber.

This lightweight material can be found on the rollover bars, spoilers and windscreen frame. In addition to this, what also save weight are the canvas soft top and the replacement of the glass rear screen with a continuation of the SMC bodywork.

Moreover, carbon fibre dominates throughout the cabin. Precisely, the monocoque of the 4C Spider Prototype is constructed entirely from this material and is clearly visible in the centre console, door sills and rear bulkhead.

New in here is also the dual-stage central exhaust system with titanium and carbon tailpipes by Akrapovic. A key feature of this exhaust is an electrically-operated valve system that improves performance and enhances the exhaust note at the push of a wirelessly-linked button.

The car is driven by Alfa Romeo’s four-cylinder, all-aluminium, 1750 Turbo Petrol engine. The unit is coupled with six-speed, dual dry-clutch Alfa TCT transmission, and drives the rear wheels. From 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) the model accelerates for 4.5 seconds, while the top speed is in excess of 155 mph.

Carbon fibre clamshell headlights have been fitted to this vehicle. Also exclusive are the alloy wheels, milled from solid aluminium blocks and fitted with bespoke Pirelli tyres. Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Prototype is finished in three-layer gloss white, which additionally highlights car’s beautifully sculpted shape and masterfully resolved surfaces.

Source: Alfa Romeo

March 4, 2014

Compact Toyota Aygo Revealed In Geneva

Toyota Aygo was just revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, showcasing a distinctive and characterful design. In these terms, the car was also dubbed J-Playful in reference to Japan’s hip youth culture.

Aygo is compact, nimble and reliable, and of course has low running costs, which are due to the three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine. The car sports relatively small dimensions; it has an overall length of 3,455mm, height of 1,460mm, and widened front and rear tracks.

The most striking design element is Aygo’s distinctive frontal X-graphic, which spreads outwards across the surface of the bodywork, and takes in all the vehicle’s main external features, including upper and lower grilles, headlamps, foglamps, and even mirrors and side glazing.

In profile, the roof has been lowered and the front header moved forwards. The result is that cabin’s centre of gravity also moves. The roof has a new pagoda-style profile and an integral rear spoiler. At the he rear end the tailgate and lower bumper form break lines in the vehicle’s solid surface. The lamp clusters are set within the hexagonal tailgate, and the upper bumper section widens into pronounced wheel arches.

Inside one can see the trapezoidal centre console, new design for the air vents, door trims and gear shift surround. The console supports a wide dashboard with a matt, anti-glare finish; it features a meter made of up concentric rings and central multi-information display.

The wheelbase remains unchanged for the 2014 Aygo and is 2,340 mm. Despite this fact, the cabin is longer by 9mm, and features wider armrests to enhance the comfort. There’s more room for luggage – additional 29 litres.

Toyota decided to make the model easily customizable. Optional features include X-shaped front grille, rear bumper insert, enhanced front bumper and alloy wheels, different design for the instrument panel, centre console, air vents, shift knob and gear lever surround. In addition, the brand is offering a choice of exterior and interior styling packs. 2014 Aygo will be fitted with x-touch multimedia system, operated using a fully integrated seven-inch touchscreen. This system is the first to come with a rear view camera as standard.

Furthermore, the car is driven by the three-cylinder 1.0-litre engine, which produces 68 hp (51kW) at 6,000rpm and 95 Nm (70 lb-ft) at 4,300rpm. The combined cycle fuel consumption here is estimated at 68.8mpg, while the CO2 emissions to 95g/km.

The engine will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission or optional new x-shift-automated manual transmission that can be used in fully automatic mode, or with manual gear selection using paddle shifts or the shift lever itself.

2014 Toyota Aygo Technical Specifications:

ENGINE	New AYGO	New AYGO (with x-shift)
Type	1.0 VVT-i	1.0 VVT-i
Fuel Type	Petrol	Petrol
Valve mechanism	4-valve DOHC	4-valve DOHC
Displacement (cc)	998	998
Bore x Stroke (mm)	71 x 84	71 x 84
Compression ratio	11.5:1	11.5:1
Max. power (bhp) kW @ rpm	(68) 51 @ 6,000	(68) 51 @ 6,000
Max. torque (Nm/rpm)	95 @ 4,300	95 @ 4,300
BRAKES
Front discs (mm)	247 x 20	247 x 20
Rear drums (mm)	200	200
SUSPENSION
Front	MacPherson strut	MacPherson strut
Rear	Torsion beam	Torsion beam
TRANSMISSION
Type	M/T	MMT (x-shift)
PERFORMANCE
Max. speed (mph)	99	99
0-62 mph (sec)	14.2	15.5
FUEL CONSUMPTION (subject to final homologation)
Combined (mpg)	68.9	67.3
Fuel tank capacity (l)	35	35
CO2 EMISSIONS (subject to final homologation)
Combined (g/km)	95	97
VEHICLE WEIGHT
Curb weight (kg)	840 – 890	855 – 910
Gross vehicle weight (kg)	1,240	1,240
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Length (mm)	3,455	3,455
Width (mm)	1,615	1,615
Height (mm)	1,460	1,460
Front overhang (mm)	675	675
Rear overhang (mm)	440	440
Wheelbase (mm)	2,340	2,340
Drag coefficient (Cd)	0.29	0.29
Wheel Size (in)	14 or 15	14 or 15
Tyre size	165/65R14 or 165/60R15	165/65R14 or 165/60R15
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Interior length*	1,630*	1,630*
Interior width*	1,250 (3-door) 1,300 (5-door)	1,250 (3-door) 1,300 (5-door)
Interior height	1,205 (normal) 1,155 (canvas top)	1,205 (normal) 1,155 (canvas top)
Couple distance	806	806
Luggage space (l)	168	168

Source: Toyota

March 4, 2014

Honda Unveils Civic Type R Concept [VIDEO]

Valentine’s Day saw the first teaser image of the brand new Honda Civic Type R Concept. Now the world can see the rest of it – the car is currently being exhibited at the Geneva Salon and shows the styling direction for the anticipated new production Type R. The latter is set to debut in Europe during 2015.

The concept model has been described as a ‘racing car for the road’. It has a sleek and aerodynamic profile, which reflects a car designed for performance whilst keeping the look of a road car and the distinctive character of Type R.

The exterior styling of the model shows also the performance credentials of the Type R Concept. The elements contributing for this are the shape and angle of the stand-out rear spoiler, enlarged upper and lower front grilles, air outlets on the bonnet, widened front and rear fenders and 20-inch tyres.

Performance details haven’t been announced officially so far. However, Honda stated that the new Type R will be the first model in Europe to be equipped with VTEC TURBO engines from the Earth Dreams Technology range. The two-litre, direct injection, four-cylinder turbo is expected to deliver class-leading output of at least 280 hp (205 kW).

At the show, the brand also showcases the powertrain layout of the next generation 2015 NSX and its next generation Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Concept.

httpv://youtu.be/QQyiXqVlA8A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 4, 2014

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Makes Debut In Geneva

Today is the beginning of the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show, where the luxury brand Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled its brand new Ghost Series II. The car is fitted with the latest technologies and has a subtle re-design which keeps the popularity of Ghost’s iconic presence.

First of all, at the front the new model sports re-sculpted LED headlights encircled by daytime running lights. This gives the car more dynamic visual appearance. In addition, the new headlights blend perfectly with revised surface treatments to the front of the car.

The bumpers of the Ghost II were also slightly changed and now they exude stronger stance and a sense of extra width and height. A contemporary treatment is visible through the addition of chrome inserts to the front air intakes. The latter now feed more air cooling to the front brakes. The waft line has been also re-designed.

The interior of the model delivers modern combination of luxury, technology and connectivity. II Series onboard technology features on-board Wi-Fi, Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT), which ensures the car automatically adapts to its surroundings, updated navigation system and car/user interface, an optional Bespoke Audio.

In short, the new series of the Ghost model will be the perfect choice for the successful entrepreneurs, offering a space from which to run their successful enterprises on the move.

Source: Rolls-Royce

March 4, 2014

Official Performance Data And Specifications Of McLaren 650S Released

McLaren-650S-THUMB Exciting news from McLaren Automotive! The supersportscars automaker has released the official performance numbers and confirmed pricing of the 650S model, which is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in a week!

To go directly to the facts, the latest McLaren accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 3.0 seconds, and reaches 200 km/h (124 mph) in 8.4. The Vmax here is 333 km/h (207 mph). Putting it all together, this basically means that the 650S is a full second quicker than the iconic McLaren F1 road car to 200 km/h; as well as half a second quicker than the rapid 12C (0-200 km/h).

The reasons for these figures are several. First of all, the new model sports optimized aerodynamics, enhanced handling, high-speed balance and steering turn-in. They are all result of the improved levels of downforce.

Secondly, although the numbers speak of a sportscar, 650S also boasts a high level of luxury specification, such as carbon ceramic brakes, positioned behind unique ‘650’ lightweight alloy wheels matched with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres, IRIS satellite navigation with Bluetooth telephony, DAB digital radio in Europe, wireless tethering, audio streaming and voice control.

The cabin is trimmed in Alcantara and also includes fixed-back carbon racing seats, electric steering column adjustment, a rear parking camera and many carbon fibre elements. Despite the aggressive on-road results, the 650S also performs efficiently, returning 24.2 mpg (11.7 l/100 km) on the EU combined cycle, and a CO2 figure of 275 g/km.

McLaren 650S Coupe has a starting price of £195,250, while the Spider’s price tag starts at £215,250. You can check out below the listed performance data and technical specifications.

McLaren 650S Coupe Technical Specifications:

Drivetrain Layout	Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD	Track, F/R (mm)	1656 / 1583
Engine Configuration	V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc	Length (mm)	4512
Engine PS / rpm	650 / 7250	Width (mm)	2093
Torque Nm / rpm	678 / 6000	Height (mm)	1199
Transmission	7 Speed SSG	Dry Weight (kg / lbs)	1330 / 2932
Body Structure	Carbon Fibre MonoCell with Aluminium Front and Rear Frames	Active Aerodynamics	McLaren Airbrake
Wheelbase (mm)	2670	Suspension	ProActive Chassis Control
Brakes	Carbon Ceramic Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 394mm/R 380mm)	ProActive Chassis Control modes	Normal / Sport / Track
Tyres (F/R)	Pirelli P Zero Corsa 235/35 R19 / Pirelli P Zero Corsa 305/30 R20	Powertrain Modes	Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
Wheel Sizes (F/R)	19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

McLaren 650S Coupe Performance Data:

Efficiency	CO2	275 g/km
	Fuel consumption (combined)	24.2 mpg
	Power to weight (with lightweight options)	500 PS (493 bhp) /tonne
	CO2/power	0.42 g/km per PS

Speed	Maximum speed (650S Spider)	333 km/h (207 mph)

Acceleration	0-100 kph (62 mph)	3.0 s*
	0-200 kph (124 mph)	8.4 s*
	0-300 kph (186 mph)	25.4 s*
	0-400 m / ¼ mile	10.5 @ 224 km/h (139 mph)*

Braking	Braking	100-0 km/h 30.5 m (100 ft)
		200-0 km/h 123 m (404 ft)
		300-0 km/h 271 m (889 ft)

Source: McLaren

February 28, 2014

Skoda Shows VisionC Concept

Skoda VisionC Design Study was unveiled in the beginning of February via a teaser sketch. The design language of the dynamic and elegant five-door coupe, called Skoda VisionC is set to establish the next evolutionary step in brand’s design language.

As visible on the pictures, the design is becoming more expressive, dynamic and emotional, but at the same time the concept demonstrates the possibilities in innovative chassis design. VisionC exudes interplay of soft, slightly contoured, concave and convex surfaces, as well as sharp, precise lines.

In addition the concept demonstrates engineering innovation, space, functionality. No pictures of the interior of the car were released, but Skoda states that the model provides plenty of room for four people, and this includes their luggage, placed in a large boot with excellent loading capacity.

Moreover, a modern MQB technology, low weight and optimized aerodynamics are also featured in this design vision, and even more – they demonstrate the high potential of individual mobility.

At last, it is important to mention that the vehicle uses CNG/petrol bivalent 1.4 TSI/81 kW turbo engine.This means that the unit runs on natural gas and petrol. When using the former, the vehicle consumes a mere 3.4 kg or 5.1 m3 CNG per kilometre, which is equal to only 91 g/km of CO2 emissions.

Source: Skoda

February 28, 2014

Citroen C1 Swiss & Me Concept Car To Debut In Geneva

In the beginning of the week Citroen introduced the new 2014 C1 which was described as the “A Perfect Car for City Driving”. It was also announced that the model will be unveiled in Geneva. Now, the brand is also disclosing that it will reveal also at the show a C1 based Swiss & Me concept.

The concept vehicle illustrates personalization possibilities for the car and also comes to pay homage to the city of Geneva, being “dressed” in the colors of the national flag of Switzerland. In fact, the Citroen C1 Swiss & Me Concept includes a Swiss flag on its roof.

The new model adopts a playful approach to the constraints of city driving. A bi-tone effect blends a red roof (featuring the Swiss flag), and a pearl white body. Splashes of red can be seen on the red wing mirrors, and they additionally complement the exterior styling of the C1 Swiss & Me concept.

Furthermore, the car also highlights the on-road performance of the 2014 Citroen C1, thanks to its wing extensions, large wheels and a central tailpipe. More information is set to be disclosed around the official debut.

Source: Citroen

February 28, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova