Lidia Todorova – Page 193 – Automobiles Review

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe Offers Sportier Look

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe was brand’s highlight at the North American International Show in Detroit. The luxury coupe is designed with a new lightweight and stiffer structure, and will be offered as a rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive variant.

ATS Coupe carries the same wheelbase its predecessor, but has unique roof, doors, rear fenders and trunk lid. Also specific for the MY2015 model are the front fascia and front fenders that contribute towards vehicle’s wider track.

More aggressive stance of the car is given also by the improved short overhangs and sheet metal that wrap tautly around the tires. The car rides on 18-inch wheels which come as a standard on all trim levels.

Other design features regarding the exterior, are the optional LED headlamps with Adaptive Forward Lighting. Performance and Premium trims feature illuminating outside door handles, while all models come as a standard with LED taillamps and rear-center stop lamp. ATS Coupe also includes also capless fueling.

Inside, the luxury car features a driver-focused cabin with handcrafted cut-and-sewn upholstered interior combinations, decorative stitching and materials such as leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and wood. There are also a lot of optional interior features such as:

OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot
Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity with natural voice recognition
Text-to-voice
USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Reconfigurable 5.7-inch, three-window instrument panel cluster display
Full-color reconfigurable head-up display

As a standard the ATS Coupe is fitted with Bose premium audio system with Active Noise Cancelation technology. Option here on Standard and Luxury trims are the 12-speaker surround sound upgrade and the navigation system. However, they come as a standard in Performance and Premium collections.

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will be offered with the choice of two engines: the standard 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and the available 3.6L V-6. The first can generate 272 horsepower (203 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm), while the second – 321 horsepower (239 kW) and 275 lb-ft of torque (373 Nm).

Both powertrains are equipped with direct injection and dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing, which results in enhanced power and efficiency, and reduced emissions. Each powertrain is coupled with Hydra-Matic 6L45 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control. The six-speed manual one is featured as an option in the 2.0L Turbo engine equipped cars.

The elements that contribute to vehicle’s balanced performance and responsive characteristics are the following:

50/50 weight balance and low center of gravity
Five-link independent rear suspension featuring lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
Underbody aerodynamic shields
Premium, belt-driven electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
Brembo front brakes
Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels
Available all-wheel drive

2015 ATS Coupe can be also fitted optionally with driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension, that feartures Magnetic Ride Control, a mechanical limited-slip differential, high-capacity engine cooling system and 18-inch summer-performance tires.

In terms of safety technologies, this Cadillac model features two cameras, eight ultrasonic sensors and six radar signals to help prevent crashes. The crash-avoidance systems, such as automatic braking, can pre-fill and automatically apply braking in response to potential hazards, while the Fr ont and Rear Automatic Braking, relies on radar, camera and ultrasonic technology to help prevent front and rear low-speed collisions.

The brand also offers Driver Awareness and Driver Assist Packages. The first one consists of the following features: Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist, Intellibeam high-beam control, Front and rear park assist, Rear-vision camera with dynamic guidelines.

The Driver Assist package builds upon the previous package and adds also: Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Collision Preparation, motorized safety belts, Electronic Park Brake, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Enhanced Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, full-color head-up display.

As a standard, the cars include safety features such as eight air bags, safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with full-function traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS, patented rotor coating protection and auto-dry functionality. 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will be available in dealerships this summer.

Source: Cadillac

January 16, 2014

2015 Acura TLX Prototype And TLX GT Race Car Debut At NAIAS

2015 Acura TLX Prototype along with TLX GT Race Car was exclusively introduced at the North American International Auto Show. The prototype was developed around the theme “Red Carpet Athlete” and it actually shows how a car can deliver a blend of luxury refinement and sports-sedan athleticism, with exhilarating performance. In fact, TLX joins the ILX and RLX as the third vehicle in brand’s sedan lineup.

The exterior of the TLX Prototype was decided in Acura‘s Athletic Red Pearl paint. It expresses the sporting character of the car, which is additionally emphasized through its low and wide stance, shortened front and rear overhangs, dynamically sculpted fender arches, and purposeful character lines.

The vehicle also sports Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights which add advanced and bright-eyed appearance while producing superior down-the-road illumination. In addition, the car runs on custom-made five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels fitted 265/35ZR20 low-profile tires. On the other hand, the sculpted hood with its sharply creased bilateral ridgelines hints at the performance capabilities of new Acura powertrain.

Another exclusive feature is the tailor-made side mirrors, which have a row of LED lights fused into their base. In terms of dimension, the TLX Prototype is 3.8 inches than the current TL, but still has the same 109.3 inch wheelbase. Despite the more compact exterior, TLX has spacious interior with an open and airy greenhouse, commanding sight lines, ample cargo capacity and seating for five persons.

TLX will be offered as a two-wheel or an all-wheel drive variant; with two high-performance, highly fuel-efficient new engines; two new advanced transmissions; and the next generation Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) dynamic performance and handling technologies.

In details, the powertrains are the new 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder with direct-injection and Acura’s i-VTEC® valvetrain. The first unit is coupled with new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter.

For even greater power and performance, there is available the 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 that also employs direct injection and VTEC variable valve control and cam timing along with fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation technology. The unit is matched with a new 9-speed automatic transmission with closely spaced gear ratios and a wide overall ratio range. Both powertrains utilize Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) technology with independent left and right rear wheel toe control.

Furthermore, the TLX will include an Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) to allow for further personalization and a sportier driving experience. The system features four driving modes – ECON (Economy), Normal, Sport, and a new Sport+. Depending on the mode, it adjusts the Electric Power Steering (EPS), throttle response, SH-AWD and P-AWS control logic, transmission shift mapping, Active Noise Control settings and HVAC control in accordance with the preferences of the driver.

The prototype also uses the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure and will be available with Acura’s most advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Blind Spot Indicator (BSI).

Under the lights of the Show in Detroit also was the entirely new 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car. With its reveal Acura Motorsport announced its plans to move up to the GT category of the growing and highly competitive Pirelli World Challenge Championship.

There it will compete next to the Audi R8 LMS, Cadillac CTS-V, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper, Lamborghini Gallardo, Mercedes SLS, Nissan GTR, Porsche 911 and Ferrari 458. The racer was developed from the production Acura TLX by HPD.

To be more precise, the TLX GT Race Car will include HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition, and will be powered by a direct-injected twin-turbocharged V6 engine. In addition, it was announced that the vehicle will use brand’s Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

Source: Acura

January 15, 2014

Nissan Sport Sedan Concept Previews The Future 2015 Maxima

Nissan Sport Sedan Concept was teased in the beginning of this year when it showed to the public its futuristic looking front-end design and avant-garde LED head-lights. At the Detroit Auto Show the concept was fully revealed boasting performance, innovation and technology.

Sport Sedan Concept marks also the celebration of company’s 80th anniversary. The vehicle is a design study with a particular highlight on next-generation design and sporty style. It actually previews the future production 2015 Maxima, which is intended for those keen on cutting-edge design and driving dynamics.

Along with the Nissan Resonance and Friend-ME, the car includes signature design aspects that we will see in the future Nissans. Such are the V-Motion front aspect, “floating” roof and boomerang-shaped headlights and taillights.

To go further into details, the exterior of this Nissan features low and wide proportions, with a lowered hoodline and reduced ground clearance. The “V-Motion” movement of the front end flows from the dramatic chromed grille up through the hood. At the front are positioned the large LED boomerang headlights, a deeply scooped front fascia and wide and sloped windshield.

Next, the profile of the vehicle also makes a powerful impression. It has a dynamic bodyside lines adding a strong sculptural feel and connecting the wheels and tires. Precisely, the Sport Sedan Concept runs on custom 21-inch aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with low-profile 275/30R21 tires.

At the rear we see high deck, large chrome trunk accent and wide and deeply scooped rear fascia. At last, the final touch of the exterior’s unique appearance is the “Strad Amber” paint, which is a result of the application of an orange-amber topcoat over a base of gold paint.

The interior of the concept vehicle also previews some key new design elements of the future production cars. For instance, premium materials are found throughout, diamond-shaped graphics on the quilted seats have been applied, and panels were included that add to the sense of dynamic motion. The interior also features high-contrast colors and facet metallic accents.

At last, what is important to mention is that the front-wheel drive Sport Sedan Concept will be powered by a 300+ horsepower (220+ kW) 3.5-liter V6 powertrain. The engine will be matched with a sport-tuned Xtronic CVT transmission and will include an innovative suspension layout with performance dampers.

Nissan Sport Sedan Concept Dimensions:

Length	191.7 in. (4,870 mm)
Width	75.3 in. (1,912 mm)
Height	54.3 in. (1,378 mm)
Wheelbase	111.2 in. (2,825 mm)
Front overhang	39.1 in. (992 mm)
Rear overhang	41.5 in (1,053 mm)

Source: Nissan

January 15, 2014

World Premiere: 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7.R Racecar

At the North American Auto Show Chevrolet made two exclusive premieres. The first on is of the breath taking Corvette Z06, whereas the second – of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7.R Racecar. Both cars were co-developed and represent the closest link between Corvettes built for the road and for racing. They share the masterful engineering of brand’s specialists and are equipped with new technologically advanced components in terms of chassis architecture, engine and aerodynamics.

For the racing season this year, Corvette Racing will enter two C7.Rs which will compete at the 52nd Rolex 24 At Daytona in ten days as well as the GT Le Mans class in 11 races around North America. It is also expected to be confirmed the participation of the team at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June.

In 2013 Corvette Racing won five races and this success was due to the technology transfer between Corvette production cars and race cars. Many of the architectural and aerodynamic features of the C7R are based on equivalent components and technologies found in the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06.

For instance, the first one is the brand new aluminum frame, which was built with the extensive utilization of advanced manufacturing materials such as laser welding, Flow-drill-machined fasteners and a GM-patented aluminum spot-welding process. The goal was to make a production structure for the cars which is much stronger than previous ones.

The second feature that both cars share in common is the direct fuel injected engine. It is created in such way that it delivers greater efficiency and can make a significant difference in long-distance endurance racing such as Daytona and Le Mans through fewer time-consuming pit stops.

In the aspect of aerodynamics, Corvette C7.R features forward-tilted radiator, functional hood and front-quarter panel vents, and rear transmission and differential cooling intakes. Z06 and C7.R share strategies for improved cooling and aerodynamic downforce, including similar front splitters, rocker panels, and front- and rear-brake cooling ducts.

Of course, there are differences between both cars and they are mainly defined by the limitations of GT rules. First of all, C7.R has the same powertrain as the C6.R that has a displacement of 5.5L, and has no forced induction. In comparison, Z06 is equipped with supercharged 6.2L unit which develops 625 horsepower (460 kW). Despite these differences, both engines are based on the historic small block architecture.

The racecar is also built with modified suspension because of the wider racing tires and larger brakes, according to the GT regulations. The ducts on the C7.R can be seen on each of the rear quarter panels, above the brake ducts, which will draw air to help cool the race car’s transaxle and differential.

In addition, the rear wing has been made more more-significant part of vehicle’s aero package. A larger radiator inlet generates smoother airflow over the rear wing and makes its use more efficient to the handling and stability of the C7.R at higher speed.

January 15, 2014

Jeep Wrangler Sahara Restyled By Vilner

Vilner Jeep Wrangler Sahara is the new proposal from Art Studio Vilner for the New Year. The talented Bulgarian tuners have made this Wrangler look even better – more luxurious and cozy.

Inside, the Jeep is a true masterpiece. The designers have decided to give the vehicle an interior in two colors – black and red. As materials they have used leather and Alcantara. The originally white ceiling has been painted in black, while the plastic elements on the doors, steering wheel and the air outlets on the dashboard has been slightly metallized.

To make it even more harmonious inside, the tuners have created new belts in the color of the seats. As a special treat for they client, they have designed an individual travel bag in the style of the interior.

In terms of exterior, Vilner decided to reinforce the masculine look of the car via the substitution of the old 17” wheels with 20”. Then, the Wrangler has been equipped with LED headlights, LED fog lights and LED rear turn signals. Chrome has been used for the door handles, grilles, mirrors and the tank cap.

As a final touch, chiptuning has been performed. The original 200 horsepower (147 kW) of the 2,8 CRD Engine have been enhanced to 261 hp (192 kW), while the torque was raised from 460 Nm (340 lb-ft) to 558 Nm (412 lb-ft).

January 14, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 Debuts At NAIAS

2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 has debuted in Detroit and it showed what it hides under its hood: the V12 biturbo engine. The top model in the S-Class range will be offered with long wheelbase and with a luxurious package of equipment.

At the Show was also announced that not only the S 600 but al models in the current range will be upgraded with the addition of a head-up display, touchpad and Collision Prevention Assist Plus.

Precisely, the V12 engine has an output of 530 hp (390 kW), and the displacement of the engine has increased from 5,513 to 5,980 cc. The maximum torque is 830 Nm (613 lb-ft) and is available from 1,900 rpm. Mercedes-Benz S 600 will also feature for the first time the ECO start/stop function as standard. The combined fuel consumption of the car is estimated at 25.4 mpg.

What have to be highlighted are the features of the engine: all-aluminium crankcase, one-piece chain drive, forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel, modified forged pistons, new engine control unit, new dedicated ignition coil with twin-spark ignition, cam follower, two intake and one outlet valves (three-valve technology), hollow-stem outlet valves, filled with sodium, low-temperature cooling-water circulation with separate expansion reservoir.

As a standard the S 600 will be equipped with variety of technologies such as the LED Intelligent Light System, the Magic Body Control suspension with Road Surface Scan and the Driving Assistance package Plus. The latter comprises Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Distronic Plus with Steer Control and Stop&Go Pilot, Pre-Safe Brake and Pre-Safe Plus.

To go further into details, all of the functions of the head unit will be controlled by fingertip gesture, thanks to the optional touchpad. The latter offers an additional, full-function input option over and above the existing COMAND Controller and LINGUATRONIC.

The head-up display displays important information directly in the driver’s field of view on the front windscreen. It provides important data on speed, speed limits and navigation instructions.

Collision Prevention Assist Plus also comes as a standard here. Next to the Brake Assist system, which helps to protect against collisions at speeds of over 4 mph, this system adds another function: if the danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124 mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles.

2015 Mercedes-Benz S 600 will be available on the market in March.

Mercedes-Benz S 600 (long wheelbase) Specifications

Engine

Number of cylinders/arrangement		12/V, 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	5980
Bore x stroke	mm	83.0 x 92.0
Rated output	kW/hp	390/530 at 4900 – 5300 rpm
Rated torque	Nm	830 at 1900 – 4000 rpm
Compression ratio		15.5: 1
Mixture formation		High-pressure fuel injection with common-rail technology and two turbochargers

Power transmission

Transmission		AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission
Gear ratios	Final-drive ratio 1st gear 2nd gear 3rd gear 4th gear 5th gear 6th gear 7th gear Reverse 1 Reverse 2	2.47 4.38 2.86 1.92 1.37 1.00 0.82 0.73 3.42 2.23

Chassis and suspension

Front axle	Four-link front suspension with coil spring, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers
Rear axle	Multi-link independent rear suspension with coil spring, twin-tube gas-filled shock absorbers, torsion-bar stabiliser
Braking system	Internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes at front, internally ventilated and perforated disc brakes at rear, electric parking brake, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering	Electromechanical rack-and-pinion power steering
Wheels	Front: 8.5 J x 19; rear: 9.5 J x 19
Tyres	Front: 245 / 45 R 19 Y; rear: 275 / 40 R 19

Dimensions and weights

Wheelbase	mm	3165
Track, front/rear	mm	1624 / 1637
Length (overall)	mm	5246
Width (overall)	mm	1899
Height (overall)	mm	1497
Turning circle	m	12.3
Boot capacity max.*	l	500
Kerb weight acc. to EC	kg	2185
Payload	kg	555
Perm. gross vehicle weight	kg	2749
Tank capacity/incl. reserve of	l	80/8

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0-62mph	sec.	4.6
Top speed	mph	155
Combined fuel consumption	mpg	25.4 – 24.9
CO2 emissions	g/km	264 – 259

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 14, 2014

It Is Official: 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Premiered In Detroit

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 was finally revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The most track-capable Corvette in the Chevrolet’s has been presented in its full glory and the brand finally unveiled the official specifications of the car, and we must say it is extremely exciting!

What is new here is that the Z06 is equipped with a supercharged 6.2L engine which as expected will produce 625 horsepower (466 kW). There will be two options of transmissions offered: a seven-speed manual or a brand new high-performance eight-speed automatic one with paddle shifters for manual control. What is more, there will be also offered a track-focused Z07 Performance Package which will adds more aerodynamic downforce to the car and will feature Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and Brembo carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors.

To go further into details, under the hood of the Corvette sleeps the new LT4 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine. It produces 625 horsepower (466 kW) and 635 lb-ft of torque (861 Nm) and features Direct injection, Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and continuously variable valve timing in order to deliver enhanced fuel efficiency.

The higher output of the unit is supported via the following features:

Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads
Lightweight titanium intake valves and machined connecting rods
High 10.0:1 compression ratio
Forged aluminum pistons with stronger structure
Stainless steel exhaust headers and an aluminum balancer
Standard dry-sump oiling system utilized with dual-pressure-control oil pump

Undoubtedly, the other major highlight here is the debut of the 8L90 eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission. It has been designed to improve both performance and efficiency. In fact, the transmission offers full manual control via steering wheel paddles for performance driving.

Seeing the pictures of the car, we must confirm that its design is more than striking. In order to deliver the levels of grip needed for the Z06’s performance targets the car was equipped with large Michelin tires: at the front are in size P285/30ZR19 and at the rear – in size 335/25ZR20.

The fenders have also been extended, giving the Corvette Z06 a wider and lower appearance. This is also visible at the rear fascia. The tires are mounted on lightweight and spin-cast aluminum wheels and fitted with massive Brembo brakes.

The aerodynamic downforce of the Z06 was enhanced thanks to the addition of the following elements:

front splitter, spats around the front wheel openings, a unique carbon-fiber hood with a larger vent, and the rear spoiler from the Corvette Stingray’s Z51 Performance Package
available carbon-fiber aero package – in either black or a visible carbon-fiber finish – adds a carbon fiber front splitter with aviation-style winglets, carbon fiber rocker panels, and a larger rear spoiler with a fixed wickerbill
available Z07 package add larger winglets to the front splitter, along with an adjustable, see-through center section on the rear spoiler for track use

The ravishing exterior of the car features also one-of-a-kind grille, complemented with a larger hood vent, which includes brake-cooling intakes and wider grille outlets on the bottom that serve as air diffusers. There are also additional cooling elements include larger front fender vents and air blades over the inlets on the rear fenders.

Inside, the car is fully wrapped with premium, soft-touch materials such as Napa leather, aluminum, carbon fiber and micro-suede. The focus of course is on the new flat-bottomed steering wheel. Z06 will be offered with two seating choices comprising of a GT seat and a Competition Sport seat.

2015 Corvette Z06 has been designed with extensive utilization of lightweight materials and features advanced driver technologies such as the SLA-type front and rear suspension, which has been uniquely calibrated for the higher performance threshold. Next, the third-generation Magnetic Selective Ride Control dampers which come as a standard can be adjusted for touring comfort or maximum track performance via the standard Driver Mode Selector, which offers the Launch control, Active handling (StabiliTrak electronic stability control), Traction control, Performance Traction Management and Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD).

The latter helps make the most of the torque split between the rear wheels. It includes hydraulically actuated clutch and is fully integrated with Electronic Stability Control and Performance Traction Management systems. Its calibrations offer the following Modes:

Mode 1: default setting for normal driving and emphasizes vehicle stability
Mode 2: engaged when electronic stability control is turned off in the Sport or Track modes.
Mode 3: automatically selected when Performance Traction Management is engaged.

The performance data and pricing of the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will be announced closer to the start of production. The car is expected to be available in early 2015.

Source: Chevrolet

January 14, 2014

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 [Leak Images]

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is definitely a hot topic, since the first images of the car have already leaked. Last week there was also an unofficial data release of the horsepower that the car will develop and now it seems like the brand has failed to keep intact the secret of the visual appearance of the car.

Precisely, it is rumored that the Corvette Z06 will produce 620 horsepower (455 kW) and 650 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. This means that the new model will add 200 hp (147 kW) when compared to the base one, as well as 200 lb-ft of torque. Of course, this also leads to the logical conclusion that Z06 will be equipped with plenty of aero elements … and so it is.

Observing the leaked pictures, we can undoubtedly confirm that the exterior of the car will sport elements that can make the rumored 620 hp reality. Such are for instance the deeply vented hood, the front splitter, the additional cooling vents in the fender, the rear quarter and the large rear spoiler.

Luckily enough, the pictures that were going around the web show also some of the interior of the car. We see an exclusive black-leather used inside which is adorned with white stitching. What is more, we also see an extensive utilization of carbon fiber.

On the instrument panel at the high end of the tachometer there is a “P” on the display. And the most interesting thing we can spot is that the gear-shift is entirely different from the seven-speed speed one of the production Corvette. Will it be manual or automatic?

We are extremely excited to see what Chevrolet’s official specifications and pictures will be when 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 debuts at the North American Auto Show in Detroit.

Source: www.jalopnik.com

January 13, 2014

2014 Dodge SRT Viper Stryker Green Debuts At Detroit Auto Show

2014 Dodge SRT Viper gets a new Stryker Green and definitely looks amazing. The car was just shown for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. As a matter of fact, the new “Stryker Green” is a tribute of the iconic Snakeskin Green exterior color. The latter was introduced in 2008 and featured enhanced green and yellow pigments and a “liquid mercury” appearance.

The brand revealed that the application of the new exterior paint is a very detailed and intricate process and it takes eight hours to complete. The initial step in it begins with a base color coat followed by a green-tinted mid-coat and finishes with a clear finish. The result is that the paint additionally brings out the depth and curvature of the Viper’s exterior design.

This makes the color the perfect choice for those who want to take make their SRT Viper more exclusive and dramatic. Another debut which we see on this Dodge model is the Grand Touring (GT) special package. It includes Nappa leather seats, five-mode Electronic Stability Control and the two-mode Bilstein DampTronic Select suspension.

What is more, the shown Viper at the show has been Moparized with lightweight carbon fiber components with an exposed carbon fiber performance X-Brace. The result is almost 50 percent weight savings, but at the same time with the same strength and functional stiffness as the production version.

Furthermore, a prototype aero package has been fitted to the show car with a Mopar carbon fiber rear wing and extended front corner splitters. SRT will limit the GT option package only to the new Stryker Green and Venom Black exterior colors. Stryker Green exterior color will be offered on Viper GTS and SRT from this February.

Source: Dodge

January 13, 2014

Subaru Reveals WRX STI Racecar [VIDEO]

Subaru Motorsport has revealed the WRX STI Racecar car which will compete in the 24 Hours Nürburgring endurance race this year. The popular race will take place between 19th and 22nd of June in Germany.

The car is an enhanced version on the 2015 Subaru WRX STI. Although we have seen already the image leak of the latter, 2015 WRX STI is to be revealed at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, so we are expecting more details to be announced.

Subaru WRX STI Racecar boasts a higher level of competitiveness and it has been equipped with technologies of brand’s mass-produced models. The ultimate goal is to win a third victory in the SP3T class this year following the 24-hour race in 2012. To do that, it will substitute the turbocharged 1.75 liter engine to 2.0 liter.

Team manager will be Hideharu Tatsumi, while for team drivers has been chosen Toshihiro Yoshida and Kouta Sasaki both from Japan.

httpv://youtu.be/T9O9QVoxgM0

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Subaru

January 13, 2014

Volkswagen Beetle Dune Off-Roader Makes Debut In Detroit

Another concept is announced to make its official premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and it is the Volkswagen Beetle Dune. The brand has released a sketch to reveal the car ahead of debut and through it we can get the impression of Beetle’s cool and rugged offroad look.

As a matter of fact Volkswagen is taking into consideration the chance to bring in production the Dune concept, making it the sportiest Beetle ever. The details revealed are not many but say much: the body was raised by two inches and the designers bolted a pair of skis to the roof.

Another interesting fact is that the Dune Concept actually revisits an idea that was born with the New Beetle Dune concept, presented in Los Angeles in 2000. However, the latter car was unsuccessful because of its unrealistic design, interior and roof structure.

Dune is based on the production R-Line Beetle and will be equipped with 210-horsepower turbocharged TSI engine matched with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. The concept puts its power to the ground via the front wheels and a strut-type front and multilink rear suspension, with the XDS electronic differential lock delivering additional traction.

Source: Volkswagen

January 10, 2014

Scion Makes Fr-S And tC More Luxurious With Limited Edition Monogram Series

2014 Scion FR-S and tC are now gaining premium features with the competitively priced, limited edition Monogram Series. They will be displayed for the first time at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicles will be available in dealerships from February.

Scion Monogram Series are going to include high-end features like Alcantara inserts in the FR-S and navigation technology in both the FR-S and tC. Only 2000 of these limited FR-S models and 2,500 tC models will be produced.

Scion FR-S Monogram Series features the following equipment: HID headlamps with LED daytime running lights, heated outside mirrors, color-keyed rear spoiler.

The interior of the LE model includes Smart Key with push button start, dual-zone automatic climate control system, heated front seats, leather seats with Alcantara inserts, BeSpoke Premium Audio with navigation and connected services, frameless rearview mirror, rear-seat center armrest, carpet cargo mat.

Scion tC Monogram Series’ exterior will offer to its owner color-keyed low-profile rear spoiler, rear window wiper, while the interior is more abundant and features leather trimmed seats with perforated inserts, BeSpoke Premium Audio with navigation and connected services, Smart Key with push button start, heated front seats, leather shift knob, carpet floor and cargo mat, upgraded center console lid with accent stitching and upgraded interior door trim.

Scion FR-S Monogram Series has a starting price of $27 400 USD, while the tC Monogram Series – $21 400 USD.

Both cars will be offered in the standard exterior color with the choice of six-speed manual and six-speed sequential automatic transmission. As an option, there is also available a premium exterior Whiteout color.

Source: Scion

January 10, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova