Lidia Todorova – Page 186 – Automobiles Review

Subaru Teases Viziv 2 Geneva Concept

Subaru has just announced that it is going to make an official premiere of the Viziv 2 Concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The company has also released a teaser image of the car as well as some information around it.

Subaru Viziv 2 Concept follows the footsteps of its predecessor, which was introduced at last year’s Geneva Motor Show, as well as the Viziv Evolution Concept which was presented at the Tokyo Motor Show 2013.

Precisely, the new model is a vision for a future-generation crossover concept that shows the future path for the Subaru’s brand value of “Enjoyment and Peace of Mind”. The name “VIZIV” is a coined word inspired by the phrase “Vision for Innovation”, a glimpse of future that spurs revolutionary ideas. In fact, the new Viziv 2 Concept expresses Subaru’s determination to continue the pursuit of this value.

Next to the new concept model, Subaru will also showcase at the show the new WRX STI and the new racing car developed from the latter. Both are making their European show debut.

Source: Subaru

February 25, 2014

Vorsteiner Range Rover Veritas Is One Of Five

Vorsteiner Range Rover Veritas is the first of five 10-Year Anniversary vehicles, which are to be enhanced by the tuner. The refiner is celebrating 10 years and this modification comes to commemorate the anniversary.

The Veritas tuning program transforms this Range Rover into a purposeful vehicle which is equipped with full carbon fiber front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper. In fact, the carbon fiber is made via a special treatment. Precisely it is laid by hand allowing the existing PDC (Park Distance Control) sensors, as well as all exterior cameras, to function flawlessly with the factory hardware.

Vorsteiner has become famous over the years with the exquisite wheels it offers. In the present case, the Veritas is equipped with the Vorsteiner Sport Race Forged VSR-163 wheels finished in Gloss Brushed Shadow. The VSR-163s come in size of 24x10J at the back and the rear and are coupled with 285/35/24 Pirelli Tires.

To go even further into details, it is important to mention that each individual spoke on the VSR-163 is machined in a triangular shape that gradually gets wider toward the rear. This small element significantly improves machine time over standard squared spokes.

In addition, the company is also offering an interior treatment. Range Rover Veritas is fitted with custom leather upholstery. At last, Vorsteiner has also disclosed that there are four more models to come, which will celebrate the decade of perfection and success of the tuning brand.

Source: Vorsteiner

February 24, 2014

Pure Sports Feeling: Dotz Shift Toyota GT86

The iconic Toyota GT86, the latest version of which was introduced back in 2012, has fallen in the hands of the German based tuners at Dotz Shift. They decided to enhance their dynamic pearl white version of the car, thus making it delivering the purest sports feeling.

As a reminder, this Toyota is driven by a 200 hp (147 kW) 2L flat engine which ensures its Japanese-racing qualities. Regarding the refinement, the specialists have equipped the car with TRD body kit that adds onto the architecture of the model.

Precisely, the kit consists of a front and rear spoiler, a 4-pipe rear silencer and Eibach springs. Next, they have also given the GT86 a set of new shoes to run on, namely the Dotz Shift shiny black and polished 19 inch wheels.

In fact, they are unique and feature rim with the star pattern formed by seven slender, edgy double spokes and deep lip. They are also lightweight because the recessed center reduces the wheel’s mass. The wheels are also offered in numerous ABE applications from 15 to 19 inch.

Source: Dotz Shift

February 24, 2014

Huntsman Longnose 105 Concept To Be Produced In 49 Examples

A. Kahn Design is the company which has developed the Chelsea Widetrack Defender. Now the designers are improving this winning formula and are introducing the first sketches of a forthcoming concept called Huntsman Longnose 105.

The concept vehicle is a combination of Kahn’s sublime style and Paris-Dakar race bred performance technology. In other words it expresses stunning visual characteristics and boasts supreme performance due to the 6.2 litre V8 powerhouse driving through a 6 speed electronic gearbox.

The engine produces 550 horsepower (404 kW) and is one of the featured elements ensuring breathtaking on and off road performance. Furthermore, the vehicle sports race derived braking system.

Kahn envisioned this design concept with a special exterior pack that includes front bumper with integral LED lamps and sump guard, vented tailpipe exit mud flaps, side steps, Chelsea signature wide wings, crosshair headlamps, rugged new grille, and a choice of 16 or 18 inch wheels.

Inside, the cabin of the Huntsman Longnose 105 features hand trimmed racing seats, sport steering wheel, drilled pedals and custom dials. They all contribute to the unique nature and tactile feel of this high performance Defender.

Moreover, the design company is offering additional list of equipment which includes features such as integrated satellite navigation system, 20 inch wheels, privacy glass, tweed trim detailing and a choice of luxury floor and headlining materials.

The tuning specialists have also revealed that there are plans to produce only 49 examples of the Huntsman Longnose 105. The vehicles will based around the brand new Land Rover Defender and retain an uprated version of the supremely rigid Land Rover chassis.

Source: A. Kahn Design

February 24, 2014

Volkswagen Golf GTE Plug-In Hybrid Revealed

Volkswagen has released the first images of the brand new four-door Golf GTE Plug-In Hybrid vehicle, which was created with the aim to combine the benefits of electric mobility with the dynamics of a Golf GTI.

The new car will make its debut in Geneva, where also will be disclosed its detailed specifications. If you haven’t figured out what the letters GTE stand for, where here’s the hint: the GT is for “Gran Tourismo”, while the E stands for Electric.

Precisely, the car will utilize two engines – a 1.4-litre TSI direct-injection petrol engine that produces 150 hp (110 kW) and a 102 hp (75 kW) electric motor. Together both generate 204 hp (150 kW), 350 Nm (258 lbs ft) of torque and a theoretical range of around 580 miles. Volkswagen Golf GTE uses a six-speed DSG gearbox with a triple-clutch system.

Furthermore, thanks to the mentioned horsepower, the car achieves a 7.6 seconds time for the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h. The fuel efficiency on a combined cycle is estimated at 188 mpg, while the CO2 emissions – at 35 g/km.

In terms of exterior, there is nothing that would surprise us here – in other words, the GTE is a typical Golf. However, it includes C-shaped LED daytime running lights on the front bumper similarly to the e-Golf and aerodynamic horizontal ‘fins’ like the GTI. The hybrid will be fitted with 18-inch ‘Serron’ alloy wheels as a standard.

The same blue highlights seen on the exterior can be found on the inside. For instance, there is a blue stitching of the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter and seats, and a blue stripe in the tartan pattern on the sports seats. The interior also sports 8-inch Discover Pro satellite navigation system with DAB radio and Bluetooth as a standard.

Source: Volkswagen

February 21, 2014

Mazda To Officially Reveal HAZUMI Model At Geneva Motor Show

Mazda HAZUMI is the next-generation subcompact concept, which will be revealed by the brand at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show. In addition, Mazda will also show for the first time at the event its new clean diesel engine – the SKYACTIV-D 1.5, as well as the MX-5 model.

There hasn’t been said much for the HAZUMI, except for that this name literally means “bound” or “spring up” in Japanese. The company also said that it will be a small car “that appears to be bursting with energy”, if we follow the name-concept. Of course, the car will be built with no compromises in terms of engineering and will probably convey the ideal form for the company’s next-generation subcompact vehicle.

In Geneva Mazda will also debut the newly developed small-displacement SKYACTIV-D 1.5 clean diesel engine. On the other hand, the next generation MX-5 will celebrate 25th anniversary of the iconic bestselling roadster.

The visitors of the show will also have the chance to see the following vehicles: Mazda3, Mazda6, Mazda CX-5, Mazda5, Mazda2, Mazda MX-5, as well as the following technologies: SKYACTIV-G 2.0 petrol engine, SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel. Less than two weeks to go to get the full idea of what the HAZUMI will be about!

Source: Mazda

February 21, 2014

2015 Audi TT To Take Shape In Geneva

2015 Audi TT has just been teased with four sketches, which give a very good idea of what the car will look like. At next month’s Geneva Motor Show the new TT will have its official premiere, but until then we will probably stay with those pics and some information shared by the brand.

For the third generation of the iconic TT, the designers have reinterpreted many ideas. For example, the front end of the car has dominant horizontals, broad and flat singleframe grille and V-pattern over the bonnet. The most striking change here however is the position of the four rings which now sits centrally on the hood.

The large air inlets have been divided by struts, and the same design approach can be seen on the headlights, which are structured with divider struts. Optionally, the TT can be equipped with LED or Matrix LED technology.

Furthermore, at the front a sill contour forms a powerful light edge, while the wide wheel arches constitute distinct geometrical entities. The bonnet join on the other hand continues over the door and extends to the rear. The C-pillars have new shape and lend the TT a powerful and sporty look.

At the rear one can also see horizontal lines, struts in the rear lights that pick up on the headlights’ motif, third brake light with a flat strip, and two large round exhaust tailpipes in the diffuser.

The interior of the 2015 TT has also been changed. The centre console and door trims have flowing shapes, while the dashboard resembles the wing of an aircraft. The round air vents received a turbine-like look and feature air conditioning controls. The MMI monitor is now replaced by the Audi virtual cockpit.

Source: Audi

February 21, 2014

GeigerCars Garish Green Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Beast Edition

Geiger Cars, a tuning company based in Germany, has released its latest modification on Ford F-150 SVT Raptor. The car has a unique exterior treatment in poison green, which was achieved by through a foil wrapping.

But this isn’t the reason this truck is called Beast. Of course, as you have might guessed, it is due to the high-tech power enhancement done on the Raptor’s 6.2 -liter engine. Thanks to it the vehicle now develops 572 hp (421 kW) and 712 Nm of torque. The raise was from the production 417 hp (307 kW) and 590 Nm (434 lb-ft).

The next step in the tuning was the suspension lift of the chassis. As a result, this Ford grew from 1.98 m 2.20 m in height. Furthermore, the tuners have added an advanced damping system of the Raptor Fox, which was additionally enhahced for all driving situations, as well as differential lock.

Then, the F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew Cab was fitted with Luxury package. The latter adds to the visual stance of the vehicle the following: electrically adjustable seat ventilation and memory package, dual-zone automatic climate control, high-quality multimedia system, steering column and pedals, an extension of the normally closed cargo area, a leader in the tailgate for easy climbing onto the rear platform, front and rear cameras, xenon headlamps and LED lighting.

At last, in order to deliver plenty of grip on any surface, the tuners has given this Ford model a high-quality all-terrain Toyo Open Country tyres. They are in the dimensions of 37×13.5R22 and are fitted to the 10×22’ aluminum rims. Option the GeigerCars team has also ensured available headlights on the front bar and LED bar.

GeigerCars Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Super Crew Cab Beast Edition Specifications:

Engine: 6.2-liter V8
Torque : 712 Nm (525 kW)
Power: 572 hp ( 421 kW)
Transmission: Six -speed automatic
Consumption: 17.1 l/100 km Combined
Emissions combined : 340 g / km CO2
Tires: Toyo Open Country ( 37×13.5R22 )
Aluminum Rims: 10×22 inches

Source: Geiger Cars

February 20, 2014

2014 Fiat Panda Cross Adds More Rugged Looks

2014 Fiat Panda Cross is will be brand’s entry to make a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 4th of March. The vehicle was built on the successful formula of the Panda 4X4 but will offer even more all-terrain capability.

The latter will be ensured by the introduction of a host of new features, better performance and improved ground clearance. Key new element is the standard ‘Torque-on-Demand’ transmission system, which uses Panda’s Electronic Locking Differential (ELD) and advanced Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems. Both, they operate engine’s torque delivery in difficult driving conditions.

Moreover, this system is fully automatic and requires zero maintenance. It is controlled by the new Terrain Control selector, which has three driving modes: Auto, that automatically distributes drive between the front and rear axles; Lock, where the 4WD serves for off-road utilization at speeds of up to 30mph, with distribution of torque controlled by braking slipping wheels; and Hill Descent, which is used for optimum handling of particularly steep hill descents or when driving down extremely bumpy laneways.

Adding to the new equipment are the oversized all-season 185/65R15 tyres, which were developed specifically to combine drivability and traction in low-traction situations. Furthermore, the suspension of the new Panda Cross has been optimized in order to provide more comfort, better handling, road-holding and safety. An independent MacPherson suspension is employed at the front while a torsion beam layout has been developed for the rear.

What is more, the ground clearance here got bigger. It is 16 cm for the MultiJet II version and 15 cm for the TwinAir Turbo version. The two engines will have as a standard a Start&Stop function. To go even further into details, the new 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine produces 90 hp (66 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 145Nm (107 lb ft) of torque between 1,900rpm and 3,000rpm. Its figures are estimated at 57.6 mpg fuel consumption and 14g/km CO2 emissions, when the vehicle is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

The second powertrain – 1.3 MultiJet II turbo-diesel, will offer its driver 80 hp (59 kW) at 4,000rpm and 190Nm (140 lb ft) of torque at just 1,500 rpm. On the combined cycle this unit returns 60.1mpg and 125g/km CO2 emissions.

In terms of exterior design, the front end of the new Panda features new light clusters, new bumper and new fog lights integrated into front facia. New LED DRLs are mounted into the skid plate. The latter is finished in a satin titanium colour with perforations. At the sides one can see wheel arch extensions, side mouldings with the ‘Cross’ logo and new roof bars with a satin titanium finish. The rear end has been also refined and now sports a new bumper with under-body protection, new rear light cluster and a chrome tail pipe.

The interior of 2014 Panda Cross gets unique fabric/eco-leather upholstery and a new dashboard finish with a distinctive copper fascia. The standard equipment here includes a leather-trimmed steering wheel with remote controls, leather-trimmed gear knob, automatic climate control, Blue&Me connectivity, electric door mirrors, height-adjustable driver’s seat and Terrain Control selector. Available option is the City Brake Control, which recognizes the presence of other vehicles or obstacles in front of the car, and brakes automatically.

Source: Fiat

February 20, 2014

Infiniti To Bring Q50 Eau Rouge Concept To Geneva [VIDEO]

Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Concept was officially unveiled two months ago at the Detroit Auto Show as a design vision for a high-performance variant of the Q50 premium sports sedan. A month from the now luxury brand is going to preview the model to the European public, and of course the first to see it will be the visitors of the Geneva Motor Show.

In addition to this, Infiniti has also released a video, which slightly hints towards the idea that the car will get a new engine. You can view the video below and enjoy the sound of the powertrain. In fact, the brand stated that the new unit will have a “big personality with forced induction”.

Another interesting fact is that Q50 Eau Rouge is the most powerful Infiniti ever built. It produces more than 500 horsepower (368 kW) and 813 Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. Despite these numbers and the big interest of customers, the concept has not been confirmed for production.

This Q50 model has a Formula One-inspired carbon fiber bodywork, so the new engine is probably a take on premium performance. And the proof is the impressive Q50 Eau Rouge engine sound.

httpv://youtu.be/ajI6EzIoAlQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Infiniti

February 20, 2014

Land Rover Defender XS Gets Two Option Packs

With Geneva Motor Show being around the corner brands are getting more competitive than ever. After the reveal of 2015 Range Rover Evoque Autobiography And Autobiography Dynamic yesterday, now Land Rover announced that the visitors at the event will see the launch of two new distinctive option packs – the ‘Black Pack’ and ‘Silver Pack’, for the iconic Land Rover Defender XS.

Defender XS will be also equipped with a suite of optional features such as a new aluminium finish to the vehicle’s side runners, contrast finish leather seats, privacy glass and ebony Alston headliner.

To go further into details, the Black Pack will add to the exclusivity of the vehicle Santorini black finish applied on the roof, grille, grille surround, headlamp surrounds, wheel arches, ‘Defender’ bonnet script and interior facia. The pack will be available with two wheel variations – a gloss black Sawtooth alloy wheel and a new gloss black heavy duty wheel.

On the other hand, the Silver Pack gives the Defender a bright Indus silver finish, which serves as a contrast to the roof. The same finish is applied on the grille surround, headlamp surrounds and facia. This particular pack also adds to the model a Dual Finish alloy wheels as standard and a bright light pack that comprises of white tail and indicator lights.

The privacy glass option is an addition which delivers more drama to the appeal of this Land Rover. It comes as a standard in the black pack and adds darkened glass to second and third row windows on the Station Wagon and to the alpine light and rear quarter light windows on Hard Top XS.

Inside, the Defender will be optionally available with contrast leather premium seats. The latter will feature Windsor leather inserts, and a choice of three colourways: Ebony/Pimento, Ebony/Tan or Ebony/Lunar. What rounds-out the look are the front centre stowage compartment contrast leather highlights.

Source: Land Rover

February 19, 2014

Vauxhall Adam Rocks Ready To Roll In Geneva

Vauxhall‘s urban mini-crossover Adam Rocks is going to make its first official appearance in Geneva. What is the difference between the Rocks addition to the Adam model range to the other vehicles in the line-up? Well, first that has to be mentioned is that Adam Rocks is taller, wider and tougher in terms of appearance.

The second thing visible at first stance is that it offers a full-length electric folding canvas roof. Precisely, Rocks is with 15mm raised chassis. This fact required parts of the chassis system to be modified or re-tuned. Dampers, springs, the rear suspension geometry, and steering were all refined.

The higher and wider stance of the car is supported by a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, which can be additionally personalized with new wheel clips in “Wild” design and different colors.

Another element that contributes towards the muscular look of the car is the protective, anthracite-coloured cladding wrapped around it. Moreover, the front trapezoidal grille features a chrome central brand bar, is also embedded in the cladding.

In contrast to it are the satin chrome ‘boomerang’ elements which frame the front fog lamps/indicator housings and the reversing/fog lamps at the rear. In addition, an integrated rear roof spoiler and LED daytime running lights are also featured. Silver skid plates front and rear and a bold chrome exhaust complete the exterior design. Vauxhall has also announced that it will add new exterior paints, revealing only one of them – the yellow Goldbusters.

Another highlight here is the electric folding canvas roof, which can be operated via a button located in the front area of the headliner and folds back neatly on to the C-pillars in five seconds. The folding canvas roof will be offered in a choice of three exterior colours – Black, Sweet Coffee and Light Oak.

Inside, the same creative design manner is being utilized. Two new interior trims are available. They include a main instrument cluster, seat and door panel colors and other trim elements. One trim has elegant-sporty Peanut-colored fabric/Morrocana seats and door panels, leather steering wheel, gearshift and handbrake in the same color, and a “Surf” décor trim. On the other hand, the second one features a sophisticated Coffee Bean design, in other words – rich dark brown seats in a black cabin trimmed with bright blue stitching.

Vauxhall Adam Rocks will be also the first vehicle to be equipped with company’s new 1.0-litre ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo three-cylinder engine, which packs up to 115 hp (85 kW) and 166 Nm (123 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel-saving Start/Stop technology is an integral part of the system and will be offered as standard.

The powertrain will be offered in a choice of two outputs, 90 hp (66 kW) and 115 hp (85 kW). Both versions will be coupled with a new six-speed manual gearbox with a compact package design.

Other engines included in Rocks are the three current four-cylinder naturally-aspirated units: 1.2-litre engine with 70 hp (51 kW) and a 1.4-litre available in two power outputs, 87 hp (64 kW) and 100 hp (74 kW).

Source: Vauxhall

February 19, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova