Lidia Todorova – Page 189 – Automobiles Review

Mitsubishi Exhibits Three New Concepts At Geneva Motor Show

Geneva International Motor Show opens on 6th of March and there we will see the plans for the future of many brands. Among them is Mitsubishi Motors Corporation w) which will present its three latest concepts to the European customers.

The brand has embedded in them great design, driving performance and low environmental impact. The concepts also signal the future plans for Mitsubishi. The first one is Concept XR-PHEV, which is a next-generation coupé-like compact plug-in hybrid electric crossover.

The model utilizes front-wheel drive layout PHEV system that features a 1.1-litre direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC petrol engine, a lightweight, compact and high-efficiency motor and a high-capacity battery.

Mitsubishi Concept GC-PHEV will be also presented at the event. It is a next-generation full-size plug-in hybrid electric SUV with full-time 4WD. This model is equipped with front 3.0-litre V6 supercharged MIVEC petrol engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It also offers a high-output motor and a high-capacity battery in order to deliver enhanced performance.

At last, the visitors of Geneva Motor Show will be delighted to see the Concept AR. This is a next-generation compact MPV that mixes the sportiness of a SUV with the roominess of MPV. It utilizes a lightweight mild hybrid Belt-driven Starter and Generator system (BSG) including a 1.1-litre 3-cylinder direct-injection turbocharged MIVEC unit coupled with a low output BSG torque circuit with a 48V lithium-ion battery and DC-DC converter.

Mitsubishi also announced that it will celebrate in Geneva its 40 years presence in Europe.

Source: Mitsubishi

February 7, 2014

Honda Unveils Vision XS-1 Concept [VIDEO]

An exciting new concept vehicle was presented by the Japanese brand Honda at the 12th Auto Expo 2014 held at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. The vehicle is named Vision XS-1 and is a creative study model that exudes company’s vision for the future.

In fact, this Honda is based on two original ideas we have seen in the past. The first one is the M/M concept. The initials stand for man maximum and machine minimum. This basically means that the Vision XS-1 includes two different values – sporty appearance and great spaciousness in the compact body.

The second idea embodied in this vehicle is the “Exciting H Design”, which is Honda’s human-centered design concept. Some of the key features included in this concept model are the three rows of seats for a maximum of seven occupants, the combination of sportiness and versatile space and the sliding doors with large openings.

Unfortunately, Honda does not plan a mass-production for Honda Vision XS-1.

httpv://youtu.be/1MVohnXN8Eo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

February 6, 2014

Mopar 4700 Spec Class 4×4 To Compete At 2014 Griffin King of The Hammers

Mopar will be making tests in southern California desert at the 2014 Griffin King of The Hammers. This is an event which is considered to be the toughest one-day off-road race in the world, because it combines desert racing and rock crawling.

The race is held for one week every February on public lands in Johnson Valley in an off-highway vehicle area known as “The Hammers”. The participants are divided in four distinct categories, race on a 100+ mile terrain that features sandy washes dotted with creosote bushes, flat dry lakebeds, sand dunes and rock canyons and trails.

Mopar will be currently competing in the Every Man Challenge race category. The latter allows stock and modified stock vehicles to take part in the race. Mopar’s GEN III 5.7 liter HEMI crate engine will be included in six unique “4700 Spec Class” 4×4 vehicles. They have a custom tube frame design which is based on the Jeep Wrangler, and are outfitted with Mopar’s HEMI crate engine and Mopars parts.

Each of the six unique Mopar-powered 4×4 vehicles will be driven by the following drivers:

#4701– Eric Bothwell with co-driver Robb Pritchard, who will be driving the Dynomax vehicle.
#4702– Larry Nickell, who will be driving the Team Yukon Vehicle.
#4703 – Jessi Combs – the fastest woman on four wheels. She will be racing in the Team Falken Vehicle.
#4704 – Ross Stanford will be racing for Team Spidertrax.
#4705 – Shannon Campbell – two time “King of The Hammers” Champion, who will be racing the Team Fox car.
#4706 – Jim Marsden will compete in the Team Odyssey vehicle.

Source: Mopar

February 6, 2014

TEASER: Skoda VisionC Design Study

Skoda has released a teaser sketch of its upcoming concept vehicle which will have its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March. It will be brand’s highlight at the show.

Carrying the name Skoda VisionC Design Study, the model exudes dynamism and exceptional aesthetics. Its design was developed the last few years with the aim to move Skoda to a next level of sophistication.

The five door coupe concept underpins the evolution of brand’s design language and gives hints towards what we can expect to see in the future. In fact, Skoda’s goal is to renew and broaden the entire range of models.

The design language of the dynamic and elegant coupe is more expressive, dynamic and emotional, and at the same time, shows the innovative steps that the company is implying in this study.

VisionC seems influenced by the design of Volkswagen CC four-door coupe. It has the same low and sleek roofline, a short front and rear overhangs, as well as sporty stance. The car is expected to be powered by high-output and efficient four-cylinder turbocharged engine. More details to come near official debut.

Source: Skoda

February 6, 2014

2014 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Records Best Fuel Economy Rating

The best ever highway-cycle test result ever achieved by a full-size half-ton pickup has been recorded, and the vehicle to do this is the 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel. Precisely, the car was rated at 28-mpg by the EPA, and this rating also exceeds the EPA highway rating for the top-ranked small pickup.

Next to its superior fuel economy this Dodge model also offers torque of 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm). This rating is possible due to the engine’s block and bedplate which are made from lightweight Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI). Adding to this is the innovative MultiJet 2 common-rail fuel-injection system, which reduces noise and enhances low-speed throttle response.

The EcoDiesel Ram is fitted with 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 unit which includes Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), high-pressure cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), variable swirl intake ports and a variable-geometry turbocharger. The efficient powetrain is coupled with a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission, which also improves the fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, the gearbox also has thermal-management system. The latter warms transmission oil to reduce pumping losses associated with cold, low-viscosity fluid. What is more, the scored efficiency results were made reality due to the active grille shutters that maximize air flow in order to improve aerodynamics; the Electric Power Steering (EPS) that relieves the engine from constantly turning a hydraulic pump; and the lightweight aluminum components.

2014 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel has a starting price of $24,200 USD and will go on sale on 7th of February.

Source: Dodge

February 5, 2014

Honda Launches Two New Fuel Efficient Civic Models

Honda is launching two new fuel efficient Civic models: 2014 Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas. The cars have been enhanced with a wide range of new standard and optional features for the new model year.

Precisely, as a standard these vehicles add new Display Audio with 7-inch touchscreen that give access to audio, phonebook, media, vehicle information and navigation features. Through the touchscreen the driver can also use the HondaLink application that will allow them access to online and cloud-based content and information both inside and outside the car.

Furthermore, standard on both models is the Expanded View Driver’s Mirror. When this feature is combined with the optional LaneWatch display, it enhances driver’s surrounding view. Added convenience delivers the standard Smart Entry with Push Button Start found only on the Civic Hybrid that allows easy entry and keyless engine starting.

Next, the Civic Natural Gas Leather Navi model gains leather seats, heated front seats, heated side mirrors and a six-speaker audio system. This trim level comes as a standard and is equipped with 5-speed automatic transmission.

On the other hand, for the Civic Hybrid is also offered in three interior variants: Navi, Leather, and Leather Navi. All of them are equipped with continuously variable transmission (CVT).

2014 Honda Civic Hybrid will goes on sale today with a starting price of $24,635 USD, while the 2014 Civic Natural Gas will be available at Honda dealerships from 15th of February with a base price of $26,640 USD.

TRIM	MSRP	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1 (city/highway/combined)
Civic Hybrid Sedan CVT	$24,635	44/47/45
Civic Hybrid Sedan Navi CVT	$26,135	44/47/45
Civic Hybrid Sedan w/ Leather CVT	$25,835	44/47/45
Civic Hybrid Sedan w/ Leather Navi CVT	$27,335	44/47/45
Civic Natural Gas Sedan 5AT	$26,640	27/38/31‡
Civic Natural Gas Sedan Navi 5AT	$29,290	27/38/31‡

Source: Honda

February 5, 2014

Toyota Introduces 2014.5 Camry Hybrid SE Limited Edition

A new limited edition model will join the current Toyota Camry line-up. It is the 2014.5 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE Limited Edition. The reason for the not so typical model year is that the car will have a production run from February to June this year and will be limited to 5000 units.

Next to its sports styling cues, the vehicle offers 40 mpg EPA city fuel economy. This is due to the Toyota Hybrid Synergy drive. In details, Camry Hybrid SE Limited Edition is powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine as well as a hybrid system with nickel metal hydride battery. Both produce a total system output of 200 hp (147 kW).

This limited edition Camry is built on Camry XLE Hybrid’s equipment level. However it adds also some goodies such as exclusive new front fascia, headlights, side rockers, rear valance, rear bumper, rear spoiler, and 17-inch wheels with low profile tires.

The interior of the car has been also enhanced specifically for the car. Inside one can find four-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel, silver interior trim, instrument panel, center stack trim, and front and rear seats.

The car can be easily distinguished due to the added unique badging. Toyota also offers for this model optional package that will add a moonroof and Display Audio with Navigation and Entune Apps Suite.

2014.5 Camry Hybrid SE Limited Edition will be available in showrooms later this month with an initial price of $27,845 USD.

Source: Toyota

February 5, 2014

Bugatti Pays Tribute To Veyron

Bugatti is celebrating the Veyron at this year’s Salon Rétromobile in Paris. There the visitors will be delighted to see the astonishing Bugatti EB 18/4 Veyron Retromobil design study. The study was shown for the first time at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1999 and since then it hasn’t appear.

As a matter of fact, the supersports car EB 18/4 Veyron marked the start of the production of the fastest car in the world the Veyron 16.4. For the creation of the model Bugatti took as an inspiration the excellent accomplishments in motorsport racing it has achieved. Of course, this can be traced in the design and form of the vehicle, as well as its interior and name.

In 2005 the world saw the launch of Bugatti Veyron 16.4 which awed the world with its 1001 horsepower (736 kW). Five years later Veyron 16.4 Super Sport appeared on the automotive scene, offering a top speed of 431.072 km/h. This top speed still holds the world speed record. The production of both models was limited to a mere 300 units and all have been sold out since 2011.

The current portfolio of the brand includes the roadster Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport, with 1001 hp, and the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse that produces even more power – 1200 hp (882 kW). The latter model holds the title of world’s fastest series production covertible.

The roadsters are also with limited run of 150 units and so far Bugatti has been sold two thirds of them. This means that there are only circa 40 vehicles still available.

Source: Bugatti

February 4, 2014

Ford Unveils Figo Concept In India

2014 Auto Expo in New Delhi marks the debut of the global B-segment compact Ford Figo Concept. The vehicle has been specifically created for India and sports less than four metres length, displays a purposeful presence and aesthetics.

Figo Concept offers more sophistication, fresh design, quality, roomy interior, as well as innovative smart and safe technology. The front trapezoidal grille shapes vehicle’s hood, giving it a powerful stance. At the rear, elongated and blacked-out headlamps contribute towards the more sporty appearance of the model.

The shape of the concept was fine-tuned through hundreds of hours of wind-tunnel testing with the only goal – to improve the aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. This not only ensures quiet ride but also maximises fuel efficiency.

Some of the smart design features are for instance the electrically adjustable power-fold mirrors. They have a flexible architecture that prevents them from being broken off if bumped by another car or motorbike.

Inside, Figo Concept offers spacious cabin filled with many features such as innovative device dock. The latter introduces a new way to store, mount and charge devices like mobile phones, MP3 players and satellite navigation systems, by integrating them into the in-car entertainment system.

Source: Ford

February 4, 2014

Two Colour Edition Models Added To Mazda2 Line-up

2014 Mazda2 Two new ‘Colour Edition’ models will adorn the Mazda2 line-up in 2014. This year the brand is giving the models enhanced visual appeal and standard equipment. Precisely, the Colour Edition models include three unique new exterior colours, and colored alloy wheels, interior colour-coded design cues and generous levels of equipment.

The names of the two new vehicles are ‘Colour Edition’ and ‘Sport Colour Edition’. Their production will be strictly limited to 1,000 units each. They will sport numbered sticker on the dashboard colour-coded to match the exterior paint, plus exterior badges on the front wings and tailgate.

Mazda’s 1.3-litre 75 hp (55 kW) petrol engine is what will power the Colour Edition. The latter also is equipped with 11 items of additional features including 15-inch dark grey alloy wheels, privacy glass and Jet Black door mirror housings and rear spoiler. Specific about the interior here is that it has black seat trim with red piping, a leather steering wheel with remote audio controls, gloss dark grey inserts to the steering wheel and audio panel, Parrot Bluetooth handsfree and body-colour door trim and outer air vents louvres.

Next, the ‘Sport Colour Edition’ hides under its hood the more powerful 1.3-litre 85 hp (63 kW) engine and over Colour Edition model adds 16-inch dark grey alloy wheels, Sports styling kit, Sports headlamps and front fog lights, 6.1-inch Mazda Navigation System with integrated Bluetooth, a trip computer, leather gear knob, electric rear windows, two additional audio speakers and an adjustable speed alarm, side and curtain airbags.

Both of the new models can be ordered in the choice of three finishes: True Red (solid), Crystal White (Pearlescent) and Aluminium Silver (Metallic).

Source: Mazda

February 4, 2014

Lister Jaguar Knobbly Returns

Lister announced the recreation of the iconic Lister Jaguar Knobbly racing car which will also mark the 60th Anniversary of the model. Orders have already been taken and almost 50 per cent of 2014 production has been sold. In addition, the company has been published a brochure with all the options and specification data to the potential customers.

The car will keep the traditional hand-built construction at its core, and in addition each car will be specifically tailored to the bespoke requirements of each customer. Of course, the production of the 60th Anniversary Lister Jaguars will be limited. First cars will leave the factory in April this year. The same month will mark the official reveal of the model.

Just like the original model, the new Knobbly will be offered with two engine variants. The first one is the 3.8-liter inline-six unit which will produce 330 horsepower (243 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque and will be mated to a four-speed Jaguar gearbox. The second option is a 4.6-liter V8 powertrain that generates 315 hp (232 kW) and 393 Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque and is mated to a four-speed manual transmission.

There are also plans to make a Lister sponsored historic race meetings which are to run in 2015, just in time for brand’s 125th anniversary. It was also announced that the Knobbly will be produced for road and race use. The starting price of the models begins at £259,000.

Source: Lister Cars

February 3, 2014

Saleen’s First Tuned Electric Vehicle To Be Tesla Model S

The muscle vehicle enhancer Saleen has announced that will produce for the first time a Saleen Tesla Model S sports car. This will be tuner’s firs effort in modifying an existing electric vehicle. Unfortunately, no release date has been set for the completion of the car, or any renderings of its design released.

However, the brand will publish very soon the first images Saleen Tesla Model S as the research and design continue. Saleen will also offer a spec sheet which will detail some of the enhancements and innovations that are to be added in this project.

Saleen has become famous with its exceptional transformations of Camaros, Challengers, and Mustangs, by adding to them more style and performance. Now the brand is putting its focus on a vehicle that has defined the sports car in the rapidly growing electric car sector.

In fact, Tesla and Saleen share the same core values of delivering elite power, style, and performance, and unprecedented craftsmanship. This new project will also give them another thing in common: to offer to the automotive audience vehicle which is not dependent on fossil fuels. Saleen has also stated that it fully intends to produce one of the most compelling Tesla’s to ever hit the roadway.

Source: Saleen Automotive

February 3, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova