Lidia Todorova – Page 188 – Automobiles Review

McLaren Surprises With The Debut Of 650S In Geneva

McLaren Automotive has just announced exciting news about the 84th International Geneva Motor Show, where it will debut the latest addition to its range of groundbreaking supercars – the McLaren 650S.

The brand also unveiled the first teaser image of the model, which was designed and developed to offer the ultimate in luxury, engagement and excitement, as well as dramatic and beautiful styling.

We suppose that the name of the model also shows its horsepower. In addition, McLaren gave a hint that the car will be probably some how similar to the 12C and the P1, precisely – it will be positioned between the two on McLaren Automotive’s supercar grid.

More details around the McLaren 650S will be announced ahead of car’s global reveal which will take place on 4th of March in Geneva.

Source: McLaren

February 13, 2014

2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo To Debut At Boca Raton Concours

2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo is least to say exclusive. It is the most powerful HPE Stingray ever and even more – it will be built in only 24 examples. This limited edition Chevrolet will be unveiled on 21st of February at the Boca Raton Concours in south Florida.

This Stingray is powered by a twin turbo system that utilizes a pair of precision ball bearing 62-mm turbochargers. The HPE system has been handcrafted and uses mandrel-bent stainless steel tubing, dual turbo wastegates, and twin blow-off valves on the intercooler’s TIG-welded aluminum plenum.

To be more precise, due to the tuning this Chevy is capable of generating 707 hp (520 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 895 Nm (661 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is coupled with either a 7-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The result of all this power is stunning. In details, when the car is equipped with 20-inch drag radial tires, it reaches 100 km/h from standstill in just 2.9 seconds, securing its way to the top speed of 210 mph.

More control for the additional power has been ensured by the HPE CarbonAero package which comprises of a carbon-fiber front spoiler, side sills and rear lip spoiler. They provide additional overall downforce.

The visual stance of the vehicle is rounded off by the 10-spoke Hennessey H10 forged monoblock wheels coupled with factory Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Due to the lightweight of these wheels, the car becomes over19 lb lighter. This results in the minimization of both rotational mass and unsprung weight.

2014 Hennessey Chevrolet Corvette Stingray HPE700 Twin Turbo Specifications:

Power

708 hp (520 kW) @ 6,300 rpm

HPE700 Twin Turbo Upgrade Includes

Twin Ball Bearing Turbochargers
Fuel System Upgrade
Stainless Steel Inlet Piping
Dual Wastegates
Air-to-Air Intercooler
Dual Air Induction Filters
Stainless Steel Turbo Downpipes
Stainless Steel Exhaust System
Professional Installation
HPE Engine Management Calibration
Dyno Tuning & Road Testing
Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques
Hennessey Exterior Badging
Hennessey Premium Floormats
Hennessey Carbon Fiber Door Sills
1 Year / 12,000 Mile Limited Warranty

Optional Upgrades

Hennessey CarbonAero Rear Lip Spoiler, Side Sills & Front Lip Spoiler
Hennessey H10 Monoblock Wheel Upgrade
Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
Brembo Carbon Ceramic Brake Upgrade
Penske Adjustable Suspension Upgrade
Custom Interior Leather Upgrades
Carbon Fiber Interior Upgrades

httpv://youtu.be/azkQg_w5L20

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Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey

February 12, 2014

Volvo To Unveil The Third Concept Car In The Trilogy In Geneva

2014 Geneva Internetional Motor Show will be very special event for the most popular Swedish automaker – Volvo Car Group. At the show the manufacturer will reveal the third and final vehicle in the current series of concept cars.

The new concept model will be unveiled on 4th of March, and will join the already presented Concept Coupe and Concept XC Coupe on Volvo’s stand. The same design approach has been applied on the new vehicle like the previous two. This means that the new concept car has been built on Volvo’s brand new chassis, titled Scalable Product Architecture (SPA).

In addition, what also has been revealed is that the concept will be powered by its new Drive-E Powertrain. Unfortunately no other information has been officially disclosed by the brand, and even more – it didn’t even release a teaser image of the future car.

So the only thing left is to wait less than a month in order to see what kind of vision Volvo designers have for the future. And more precisely, those who are lucky enough to visit the show will get the full idea of Volvo’s future, having the chance to see the trilogy of concept cars all together.

Source: Volvo

February 12, 2014

2014 Subaru XV Receives Number Of Upgrades

2014 Subaru XV was revealed two years ago, and now comes with strengthened capabilities and enhanced for the MY2014. The SUV has been improved in terms of handling, safety and cabin quality.

The suspension modifications which enhance ride quality have been added to all petrol variants. In addition, there have been also included new valve-train components that reduce engine noise. The electronic power steering system has been refined and now delivers better stability.

The new inflating dynamic damper system on the other hand minimizes steering wheel and column vibration. This system has been finely tuned and provides more weight, greater straight-line steering feel and a more linear steering response. The thicker, reshaped front suspension lower-arm and reinforcements around the base of the A-pillar serve to guarantee enhanced safety.

Inside, the cabin also received numerous updates such as the Subaru logo on the steering wheel, higher-quality silver surrounds housing the steering wheel buttons and heater controls, and new gloss-black switches which control the air-conditioning system.

As a standard now come the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and instrument cluster Gear Shift Indicator, which enhance safety and driver’s convenience. Two new exterior paint finishes have been added to the existing five, namely – Venetian Red Pearl and Quartz Blue Pearl.

Furthermore, Subaru did not make any changes to the equipment of the XV SE models. Therefore they will keep the auto lights and wipers, 17 inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps with pop-up wash, Hill Start Assist, dual–zone air conditioning, knee airbags, rear vision camera and Bluetooth. There will be no longer a Lux Premium trim level, because it has been replaced by the new SE Premium that adds satellite navigation and leather interior.

At last, 2014 Subaru XV will come as a standard with a permanent All-Wheel Drive. The model also has the highest ground clearance and is among the lightest vehicles in its class, It features a low centre of gravity that enhances the on-road handling.

Source: Subaru

February 12, 2014

500L Beats Edition Added To Fiat 500 Family

2014 Fiat 500L Beats Edition is a special series vehicle that is currently introduced by the brand. It will expand the current Fiat 500 range and will offer new colours and interior trims. But let’s review why this car is named “Beats”.

As you might have guessed already, it is because this edition is equipped with revolutionizing sound system. For its development the artist Dr. Dre and Interscope Geffen A&M Records chairman and record producer Jimmy Iovine, worked side by side with Fiat Group sound engineers to develop and calibrate the sound system. As a result the occupants will experience unmatched premium sound.

The exterior of the new model is painted with the refined two-tone grey/black livery – matt or glossy finish, and features red and satin chrome elements. The same style is found throughout the interior. Precisely, the coupe is decided in ‘total black’ and is wrapped with fabric and eco-leather black trim with red stitching.

The Beats Edition will be equipped with either the 1.6 MultiJet II turbo-diesel engine or the 1.4 T-Jet petrol one. Both of them deliver the 120 horsepower (88 kW). The first unit is marked by fuel economy, ideal for long journeys. Here the peak power is reached at 3,750 rpm, while the maximum torque is of 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) at 1,750 rpm, and the top speed – 189 km/h. With this engine, the Fiat can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds, and will have a combined fuel consumption of 4.6 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 120 g/km.

On the other hand, the 1.4 T-Jet has a maximum torque of 215 Nm (158 kW) from as low as 2,500 rpm and enables the 500L to top speed of 189 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.2 seconds. Equipped with it, the model delivers a combined consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 159 g/km.

Another highlight for the Beats Edition is that it can be equipped with Mopar parts for those willing to further personalize their vehicle. Among these accessories are the satin-finish moulding on the bonnet, the polycarbonate kick plate and the velvet mats with 500 logo. 2014 Fiat 500L Beats Editionspecial series goes on sale this week.

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Source: Fiat

February 11, 2014

Mazda Introduces Six New Sport Venture Models

For the 2014 model year Mazda is enhancing its range with the introduction of six new Sport Venture Editions. Precisely, the line-up comprises of three Mazda MX-5 sports cars, two Mazda5 and a Mazda2 models.

Each of them will be fitted with bright alloy wheels, bright silver door mirrors, exterior badging and two new exterior paint finishes: Titanium Flash and Deep Crystal Blue Mica. In addition, also as a standard here comes the new 6.1-inch Mazda Navigation System with integrated Bluetooth.

2014 Mazda MX-5 Sport Venture will be offered in three variants: 1.8-litre 126 hp Soft-top or Roadster Coupe with 1.8-litre 126 hp or 2.0-litre 160 hp engines. Next to the new exterior colors, the cars will be fitted also with stone leather sports heated seats.

Next, 150 hp petrol engine or the 115 hp diesel one will be the choice of powertrains for the Mazda5 Sport Venture models. The cars will alos boast equipment such as a Brilliant Black front grille, heated power-folding bright silver door mirrors and black leather seat trim with contrasting grey stitching.

The 1.3-litre 85 hp Mazda2 Sport Venture model is based on the Tamura, and adds 13 extra equipment items such as 16-inch Bright alloy wheels, front fog lights, dusk-sensing lights, rain-sensing front wipers and rear parking sensors. The interior of the car is adorned with sporty black cloth trim with contrasting grey stitching, a leather steering wheel with gloss dark grey inserts, gloss dark grey trim to the audio panel, door trims and outer air vents, electric rear windows and climate control air-conditioning.

Models are currently available at dealerships.

Source: Mazda

February 11, 2014

Kahn Releases The Fastest Land Rover Defender In The World

A. Kahn Design is the company behind the design development of the Chelsea Wide Track series. The sublime style of the brand coupled with Dakar race bred performance, results in an extreme vehicle. Such one is the latest Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track which promises to be probably the fastest Defender in the automotive history.

Under the hood of this model sleeps the 495 hp (364 kW) V8 engine which is coupled to a six-speed electronic gearbox. In fact, this vehicle mixes excellent visual presence with breathtaking on and off road performance. The designers have also added a new race derived braking system.

To go further into details, the exterior modifications included here feature front bumper with integral LED lamps and sump guard, plus vented tailpipe exit mud flaps and a choice of 16” or 18” wheels. In addition to this, the pack also adds upgrades such as convenient side steps, signature Chelsea wide arches, crosshair headlamps and rugged new X-Lander Grille.

Going inside of this Defender, one will find hand trimmed racing seats, sport steering wheel, drilled pedals and custom dials. Kahn also offers available features like integrated satellite navigation system, 20” wheels, privacy glass, tweed trim detailing and a choice of luxury floor and headlining materials.

Only 49 units of this model will be built. They will be based on the new Land Rover Defender and therefore will have the upgraded and highly rigid Land Rover chassis. We are expecting this vehicle to become an instant collector’s item because of its rarity.

Source: A. Kahn Design

February 11, 2014

2014 Hyundai Veloster RE:FLEX Shown At Chicago Auto Show

At the Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai premiered its brand new addition to its most popular line-up of vehicles – the Veloster. The model is called Veloster RE:FLEX and it is built upon the successful 2013 Veloster RE:MIX.

However, this model can show-off with its sportier look and one-of-a-kind styling. Precisely, the car will run on exclusive and standard 18-inch alloy wheels with a PVD chrome finish and will be propelled by the Gamma 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that is coupled with a six-speed EcoShift dual-clutch transmission.

What is more, the Veloster RE:FLEX is equipped as a standard with projector headlights with LED headlight accents, LED taillights, illuminated door sills, chrome hood accents, chrome door handles, special RE:FLEX badging, floor mats and a choice of black or red full leather seating.

Hyundai has included also as a standard its popular Style Package, that adds front fog lights, piano black interior accents, 450-watt Dimension premium audio system with eight speakers and with a subwoofer. The package also gives to the model a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, alloy pedals and an automatic up driver’s window.

The rearview camera, which is in general an optional feature, here comes as a standard. It projects what it captures on the 7-inch touchscreen display, which also shows important vehicle information. At last, RE:FLEX will be offered in a choice of several unique exterior paint finishes: Ice Pearl, Century White, Vitamin C, Ultra Black, and Boston Red paint finishes.

2014 Hyundai Veloster RE:FLEX will be available in dealerships this Spring with a limited production run of 3000 units.

Source: Hyundai

February 10, 2014

Volkswagen GRC Beetle To Compete In Red Bull Global Rallycross

Volkswagen and Andretti Sports Marketing have introduced more information about the 2014 Rallycross program. This included the reveal of a new vehicle at the Chicago Auto Show. The brand has announced also that it will run two cars in the series for drivers Tanner Foust and Scott Speed.

At first, the team will compete with modified Polo rally cars, and later will switch during the season to the Volkswagen GRC Beetle. The latter is an all-wheel-drive rallycross car that is built upon the third-generation Beetle and will offer more than 560 horsepower (412 kW) from its turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine.

If you haven’t heard about the Rallycross, well here some info: this is the fastest growing form of motorsports in the United States. The cars which are competing are pitted against each other and the clock in a series of heats on a closed course that’s usually a mixture of dirt and pavement, with a 70-foot jump. What attracts the most is that the action is fast and intense.

Tanner Foust, as mentioned, will sit behind the steering wheel of the Beetle. He is a 2011 and 2012 GRC champion and runner-up in 2013. Foust is also famous for hosting the U.S. version of Top Gear and for his rally driving skills.

The other driver to take part in the rally is Scott Speed, who will be racing the 7UP entry. Speed has competed at the very pinnacle of motorsports, driving Formula 1 for Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2006 and 2007. He also participated in NASCAR between 2008 and 2013.

Red Bull Global Rallycross series begins in May, where a pair of Polo cars driven by Foust and Speed will be competing. The definitive Volkswagen GRC Beetle will appear at the X Games in June.

Source: Volkswagen

February 10, 2014

Custom Honda Civic Si Coupe Revealed In Chicago

Forza Motorsport is probably the best racing game franchise. It has teamed up with Honda to reveal the winning entry of the Forza Motorsport Civic Si Design Contest at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. The model was chosen from nearly 170 entries, and it is designed by Forza gamer Tiffany Labedz.

More importantly, this Civic is unique and is among the first vehicles from the Forza Motorsport community to be brought from the virtual world to the real one. It is no secret that Honda loves to meet its customers where their passion lies. Bringing it to life this virtual model at the Chicago Auto Show is an example of how cars and gaming are increasingly intertwined.

Next to the custom Civic coupe, the visitors of the show will have the opportunity to play the new Honda Legends Car Pack for Forza Motorsport 5 on Xbox One, which includes the here-shown redesigned 2014 Civic Si Coupe, the 1984 Mugen CRX and the 1994 Prelude.

Honda also stated that it looks forward to more projects like this, because it finds inspiration in the passion and creativity of Forza Motorsport fans.

Source: Honda

February 10, 2014

SRT Debuts Three 2014 Satin Vapor Editions In Chicago

SRT brand is expanding lineup for the 2014 model year with three exclusive new models carrying the name Satin Vapor Editions. Precisely, the modification will be done for the following vehicles: Chrysler 300 SRT, Dodge Challenger SRT and Dodge Charger SRT.

The modified models can be currently viewed at the Chicago Auto Show, where they have made their debut yesterday. SRT’s Satin Vapor Edition packages were specifically designed to fit the personality of each model.

All three vehicles are fitted with 20-inch by-9-inch forged-aluminum split five-spoke wheels that are finished in Black Satin Vapor Chrome. Another important “detail” in common is the engine, which is the 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine.

The unit generates 470 horsepower (351 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. (637 Nm) of torque, and thanks to the use of an active valve exhaust system which allows the Fuel Saver Technology to engage over a wide rpm range, the cars can achieve up to 23 mpg highway.

To start with the first vehicle, the 2014 Chrysler 300 SRT Satin Vapor Edition adds over the common enhancements Satin Black mirrors, Satin Black spoiler, grey 6.4-liter HEMI badge, Satin Black roof and red Brembo calipers. Here, the designers have offered the cistomers the choice of Bright White, Billet Silver and Granite Crystal exterior paint finishes. An optional black body stripe is also available.

The interior of 300 SRT Satin Vapor sports black seats trimmed in Nappa leather with ultra-suede inserts. There are also visible matte carbon and piano black accents that adorn the instrument panel, door bezels and center console.

The second model, the 2014 Dodge Challenger SRT Satin Vapor Edition adds Satin Black mirrors, grey 392 HEMI badge, red Brembo calipers and Satin Black fuel door, and also Bright White, TorRed, Header Orange and Graphite exterior paints. Here the interior is decided in charcoal seats trimmed in Nappa leather with ultra-suede inserts and mini-carbon bezel instrument panel.

2014 Dodge Charger SRT Satin Vapor Edition is the third and last vehicle of the special edition series. Its special exterior treatment includes Satin Black Super Bee tail graphic, Satin Black roof and hood, Satin Black mirrors and spoiler, grey 392 HEMI badge and red Brembo calipers. Available exterior colors are Bright White, Billet Silver, TorRed and Graphite.

The interior of the Charger SRT Satin Vapor Edition features premium black seats again trimmed in Nappa leather with ultra-suede inserts and includes the Uconnect Media Center with the 8.4-inch touchscreen LED display.

2014 Chrysler 300 SRT, Dodge Challenger SRT and Charger SRT Satin Vapor Edition models will be available in dealerships in the second quarter of this year.

Source: Chrysler

February 7, 2014

SsangYong XLV Concept To Make Geneva Debut

Geneva Motor Show will see the birth of SsangYong latest concept which is called XLV concept. The initials stand for eXciting smart, Lifestyle and Vehicle and serve as a means to convey the true character of the vehicle.

In addition to this the brand has also released two teaser images which in m opinion look incredible and definitely makes me inpatient to see the real car. Precisely, the XLV is a “multi-role” (as the brand call it) B-segment SUV concept which offers significantly lower CO2 emissions.

The reduce emissions are due to its mild hybrid system that combines a 1.6 litre diesel engine with an electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery. Back in 2011 the brand introduced the SsangYong XIV-1 Concept that showcased brands innovative design capabilities, strong and yet smooth lines, and perfect proportions for a compact SUV.

The XLV is 290mm longer than the XIV-1 and provides accommodation for seven passengers in an innovative 2+2+2+1 arrangement. Here the seventh seat slides between the second and third rows for optimum flexibility.

This latest concept exudes a rhythmical and dynamic exterior design and is aimed to appeal to the user seeking individuality and practicality. The wheelbase here is 2,600mm. Other dimensions are: 4,430mm length, 1,845mm width and 1,600mm height.

Source: SsangYong

February 7, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova