Lidia Todorova – Page 214 – Automobiles Review

Five-Star Safety Rating For The Redesigned 2014 Kia Sorento [VIDEO]

The redesigned 2014 Kia Sorento CUV has earned five stars – the highest possible overall safety rating, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Sorento showed excellent performance not only in frontal and side impact crash tests, but also in rollover testing.

The vehicle is built on an all-new platform and uses Kia’s advanced safety equipment and technologies. These deliver high levels of occupant protection. The five-star rating from NHTSA makes the CUV makes one of the strongest contenders in its segment.

Next to the NHTSA’s evaluation, the 2014 Sorento has also been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle is built on a new platform and suspension system, and is equipped with V6 engine with 290HP (213 kW) at 6,400RPM and 340Nm (252 lb-ft) at 5,200RPM. The engine comes as an option on the LX trim level, while it is standard in the LX V6, EX V6, SX and SX Limited.

In addition, the Sorento offers more passenger room, and its exterior includes redesigned front and rear fascia. They incorporate new lighting elements, the 17-inch, 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels.

The interior of the vehicle features a center rack, gear shift, instrument clusters, and soft-touch surfaces. Some of the available features include second row sliding sunshades and heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, a programmable powered lift gate and heated second row seat bottoms.

httpv://youtu.be/IyjBKVGluVw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kia

September 25, 2013

Nissan Partners With Apple For The iTunes Radio

Nissan is going to be the exclusive automotive partner for the launch of Apple’s iTunes Radio. The latter will benefit from new creative formats, including audio and video, across Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac and PC.

2014 Nissan Rogue , 2014 Nissan Versa Note and Nissan LEAF electric vehicle will be among the first to be equipped with the one-of-a-kind iTunes Radio, which in addition will be integrated in the vehicles.

Furthermore, there is also a campaign theme going on for the new 2014 Rogue which is named “Make the Ordinary Extraordinary”. The marketing campaign aims to drive reservations for the vehicle, which will goes on sale at Nissan dealerships in the United States in November with a starting price of $22 490 USD.

2014 Nissan Rogue is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine which generates 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transmitted on the road via standard Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Other exclusive technology features included here are Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and a choice of an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system or front-wheel drive.

Source: Nissan

September 25, 2013

Prior Design Bentley Continental GTC With New Photoshoot

Bentley Continental GTC is definitely a car that immediately catches the attention. Not only because of its unique on-road presence, but also because it is powered by a 6.0 liter bi-turbo W12 unit, which is capable of generating the impressive 560 horsepower (412 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 RPM.

In addition to this, all that power of the cabrio is put on the asphalt through All-Wheel-Drive system. Prior Design has released a styling package for the Bentley Continental GTC as well as given it new photoshoot. The PD Bentley GT/GTC Aerodynamic-Kit improves vehicle’s aerodynamics as well as its stance.

To go further into details, the body kit comprises of Prior-Design front and bumper, Prior-Design side skirts as well as a new Prior-Design front bonnet. The complete aerodynamic package for this Bentley model is made from DURA-FLEX, which is a high quality material that delivers outstanding surface structure and provides sufficient flexibility and stability.

Source: Prior Design

September 24, 2013

TEASER: 2015 Cadillac Escalade SUV

Cadillac has just teased with two images the 2015 Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV. The brand also disclosed that the vehicle will be unveiled on 7th of October with exclusive film, which was created by the rock photographer and director Autumn de Wilde, and which will show the Escalade design process.

De Wilde’s vivid portraiture will deliver a unique way of portraying the 2015 Escalade in an artistic perspective. The images highlight the sophistication, luxury and iconic posture of the SUV. And all is done in an expression that is different than the traditional automotive photography.

The photographer said that in the creative process she is searching for those iconic portraits that make one wish one were there. The film and images will be unveiled at the Escalade Global Reveal on the mentioned date in New York City.

Source: Cadillac

September 24, 2013

Next-Generation 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi

2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi will deliver to the North American market low operating costs, and improved comfort and flexibility. The vehicle was revealed at the 2013 International Association of Transportation Regulators.

First, the new Transit Connect Taxi is equipped with a new engine – the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. It provides quick response, durability and great fuel efficiency. What is more, the vehicle will be the only taxi on the market which will be offered with a compressed natural gas/liquefied petroleum gas engine prep package.

The taxi has been redesigned and includes a decreased height. In addition, an interior hood release was added, which enables the drivers to easily check fluid levels prior to starting a shift. The car is also longer and offers seating for up to five people as well as enhanced cargo capacity of up to 60.5 cubic feet.

Next, Ford Transit Connect Taxi utilizes a modern, durable twist-beam rear suspension that prioritizes passenger comfort and cargo carrying capability. Moreover, the vehicle’s floor has been lowered which as a consequence improves the access to the cabin and even more – can be modified to be wheelchair-accessible.

The technology included here are a rear view camera, 6.5-inch touch-screen display with navigation, and SYNC with MyFord Touch. The start of the production of 2014 Ford Transit Connect Taxi will begin early next year.

Source: Ford

September 24, 2013

German Special Customs Tunes Mercedes-Benz S-Class

We are all familiar with the fact that the Mercedes-Benz vehicles are one of the most exclusive and luxurious ones. This is very true especially for the series called “S-Class“. Since five decades, the series is present on the automotive market, and a few weeks ago we have seen the introduction of its latest member.

And now German Special Customs is presenting its own design of an optically as well as technically clearly re-sharpened S-Class luxury limousine. Some of the most striking modifications are the bulky aprons on the front and rear sides.

To be more precise, the GSC front spoiler bumper bar with integrated LED daylight running light bars seems to be virtually sucking in the air stream with its massive cooling air openings. On the other hand, its counterpart on the rear creates a frame on the trapezoidal end-pipes of the new sport exhaust system.

There are also connecting links of the new bumper bars which form side skirts that also contribute towards an optical sense of lowering. Furthermore, the engine hood embodies signs which give a hint of the power concealed beneath it, thanks to its powerful contours and integrated ventilation openings.

An engine modification is expected in the future. The GSC professionals aim to tune the Biturbo V8 Sports S63 AMG unit so that it provide up to 850 horsepower (625 kW). At last, the company will offer XL wheel/tire combinations with diameters of up to 21 inches for the wheel houses of the S-Class.

Source: German Special Customs

September 24, 2013

Specifications And Pricing Announced For 2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country embodies the true rugged luxury, delivered by exquisite craftsmanship. The new model offers exclusive package of distinctive design elements, comfort and convenience features as well as great power.

What’s new and exclusive to the 2014 High Country is the car body which is available with a 5’8” or 6’6” cargo box. Other unique features include a chrome grille with horizontal chrome bars, body-color front and rear bumpers, specific 20-inch chrome wheels with P275/55R20 all-season tires. In the additional standard equipment are also featured halogen projector headlamps, chrome body side moldings, door handles and mirrors.

The interior of this Chevrolet model is decided in saddle brown. Inside are visible heated and cooled perforated premium leather front bucket seats with High Country logos on the headrests, 8-inch touch screen with Chevrolet MyLink connectivity, Bose premium audio and front and rear park assist.

Furthermore, the available features for this special edition Silverado include a sunroof, navigation system and a rear-seat entertainment system with a BluRay/DVD player, and a High Country Premium Package that comprises of heated steering wheel, driver alert package, adjustable pedals and integrated trailer brake controller.

As a standard, the vehicle is equipped with EcoTec3 5.3L powertrain, which is capable of generating 355 horsepower (250 kW) and 383 lb.-ft. of torque (519 Nm). In addition, this engine also delivers great fuel economy of up to 23 mpg highway (2WD models). As an option, there is also available, the new EcoTec3 6.2L unit, which produces 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 460 lb.-ft. (623 Nm) of torque.

The standard and the optional engine include direct fuel injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing. Each engine is coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission featuring auto grade braking, which downshifts the transmission on downgrades to reduce brake wear. The brake system includes Duralife rotors that provide quieter braking with less vibration.

What is more, the electric power steering helps in the fuel savings and enables a more consistent, steering feel. The larger rear axles now have the strength to accommodate the engines’ higher outputs. In addition, the standard locking’s rear differential ratio is 3.42.

Other standard features are the trailering package, with frame-mounted trailer hitch, seven-pin and four-pin connectors; trailer sway control that works with StabiliTrak to provide an added measure of confidence when towing a trailer.

At last, the stiffer chassis of this Silverado enables more precise tuning of the front and rear suspensions. This results in more responsiveness of the vehicle as well as smoother performance and less vibration and shake.

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country goes on sale this autumn with a starting price of $45 100 for 2WD models equipped with the standard 5.3L engine.

Overview

Models:	Chevrolet Silverado Crew Cab High Country
Construction:	body on frame
Manufacturing location:	Silao, Mexico and Flint, Mich.

Powertrains

	EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 FlexFuel (L83)	EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 FlexFuel (L86)
Fuel delivery:	direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management	direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	355 / 265 @ 5600 (SAE certified)	420 / 313 @ 5600 (SAE certified)
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):	383 / 519 @ 4100 (SAE certified)	460 / 623 @ 4100 (SAE certified)
Estimated fuel economy:	16 / 23 (2WD) 16 / 22 (4WD)	TBD
Transmission:	Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed auto.	Hydra-Matic 6L80 6-speed auto.
Final drive ratio:	3.42	3.42

Chassis / Suspension & Brakes

Front:	independent coil-over-shock; twin-tube shock absorbers
Rear:	solid axle with semi-elliptic, variable-rate, two-stage multileaf springs; splayed shock absorbers; twin-tube shock absorbers
Steering type:	electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion
Brakes:	power-assisted, four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS, with Duralife™ rotors; vented front and rear rotors
Wheel size & type / tire size:	20 x 9.0-in. aluminum / P275/55R20

Exterior

	Crew Cab with 5’ 8” box	Crew Cab with 6’ 6” box
Wheelbase (in / mm):	143.5 / 3645	153 / 3886
Overall length (in / mm):	230 / 5843	239.6 / 6085
Overall width (in / mm):	80 / 2032	80 / 2032
Overall height (in / mm)
2WD:	74.2 / 1884	73.7 / 1873
4WD:	74.0 / 1879	73.8 / 1875

Interior

	Crew Cab, Front	Crew Cab, Rear
Headroom (in / mm):	42.8 / 1087	40.5 / 1029
Legroom (in / mm):	45.3 / 1150	40.9 / 1040
Shoulder room (in / mm):	64.8 / 1647	65.7 / 1670
Hip room (in / mm):	60.7 / 1543	60.3 / 1531

Payload and Trailering

Minimum curb weight Payload (lb / kg):	5156 / 2338 1933 / 877(2WD w/ 5’8” box) 5370 / 2435 1957 / 887 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 5216 / 2366 1871 / 848 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 5429 / 2462 1883 / 854 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)
GVWR (lb / kg):	7000 / 3175 (2WD w/ 5’8” box) 7200 / 3266 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 7000 / 3175 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 7200 / 3266 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)
Max trailer towing (lb / kg):	9700 / 4400 9800 / 4445 (2WD w/ 5’8” box) 9500 / 4309 9600 / 4354 (4WD w/ 5’8” box) 9600 / 4354 9700 / 4400 (2WD w/ 6’6” box) 9400 / 4263 9500 / 4309 (4WD w/ 6’6” box)

Source: Chevrolet

September 23, 2013

Hyundai And Bisimoto To Create 1000 HP SEMA Show Genesis Coupe

The powertrain guru Bisimoto will partner with Hyundai to create a Monster-powered Genesis Coupe SEMA Show car. Instead of its standard horsepower, the car will produce up to 1000 hp, tanks to the tuning delivered by Bisimoto Engineering.

The latter is famous for its capabilities of extracting mode power out of production-grade, everyday powerplants. Under transformation will go the turbocharged Hyundai-factory-based 3.8-liter V6 engine. Bisimoto will utilize Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec engine as a core building block, and around it will add newly-designed internal parts.

Not every vehicle can withstand the modifications. Hence, the core powerplant must be strong enough. Next to the extensive work underhood, Bisimoto created a custom Electric Blue paint, Denmatic design graphics package, ARK hood and Carbon Fiber decklid. At last, at the rear, a Burns stainless exhaust and Bisimoto rear badge round out the visual impact.

Bisimoto Hyundai Genesis Coupe concept vehicle will be presented in Las Vegas at SEMA Show, later this year.

3.8-Liter Lambda Engine Modifications:

• Stock Hyundai Lambda 3.8-liter V6 engine

• Bisimoto-developed internal components:

o Steel connecting rods

o Intake gasket

o Injectors

o Level 2.4 camshafts

• Twin Bisimoto/Turbonetics BTX6462 turbochargers:

o Godzilla blow-off valve

o Dual RG45 wastegate

• Arias forged pistons

• Golden Eagle sleeves

• WPC metal surface treatment

• Supertech valvetrain

• Vibrant VanJen clamps and stainless hardware

• Magnafuel 750 fuel pump

• ARP head, main, and wheel studs

• Portflow custom headwork

• AEM Infinity EMS

• Custom smart ignition coils

• NGK Iridium spark plugs

• Puröl Elite synthetic oil

• Spearco intercooler

• Griffin radiator

• Kinsler fuel filters

• Bisimoto-spec Action Ironman clutch

Chassis Modifications:

• Bisimoto roll cage

• Progress coilover suspension and anti-roll bars

• Drive Shaft Shop 5.9 Axles and driveshaft

• Incurve 20×9.5 and 20×11 aluminum wheels

• Toyo Tires R888 R-Compound tires

Interior Modifications:

• Buddy Club racing seats and harness

• Bisimoto reservoir socks

• Racepack IQ3 dash

• Bisimoto oil cap

• Odyssey dry cell battery

• Rywire mil-spec harness

• G&J braided lines

Source: Hyundai

September 23, 2013

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid Goes On Sale On Halloween

2014-Honda-Accord-Hybrid-THUMB Two weeks ago Honda reported the beginning of production for the 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid. Now, the Japanese brand is revealing the pricing of the EPA-rated 50 mpg city vehicle as well as its debut in the dealerships in the United States on Halloween.

The vehicle will be equipped with a host of standard equipment, which includes brand’s exclusive LaneWatch blind spot display system, rearview camera, LED daytime running lights (DRL), an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, USB/iPod integration, Pandora compatibility, SMS text message function, dual-zone automatic climate control, alloy wheels, a driver’s seat with 10-way power adjustment, and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system.

On the other hand, the Accord Hybrid EX-L includes safety technologies such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). In addition, it is also equipped with leather-trimmed and heated front seats, HondaLink cloud-based media and connectivity system with Aha compatibility. Other exclusive standard features in this trim are the driver’s seat memory, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment and one-touch moonroof.

The top-of-the-line is the Touring trim which adds to the equipment Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and FM traffic data, LED headlights with blue tinted chrome bezels, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and hard disk drive (HDD) audio memory.

More importantly the MY 2014 Accord Hybrid has a great fuel economy ratings which begin from 50 mpg city / 45 mpg highway / 47 mpg combined. The reason for these numbers is the highly efficient two-motor hybrid system from Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology advanced powertrain series.

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP2	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings1(city/highway/combined)
Hybrid	$29,155	50/45/57
Hybrid EX-L	$31,905	50/45/47
Hybrid Touring	$34,905	50/45/47

Source: Honda

September 23, 2013

DMC McLaren HS-12 Velocita SE In Emerald Red Couture

DMC McLaren HS-12 Velocita SE immediately catches the attention. First of all, because it stems from the McLaren family; and secondly, because of its unique Emerald Red Couture exterior. The car was equipped with a special package created by the luxury tuning specialists at DMC.

Refiner’s components which create a styling and performance package, were made of the finest and most exclusive materials. Some examples are the light-weight carbon fiber on the body kit, the titanium on the exhaust system, and the Italian Leather utilized for the interior.

Furthermore, the aerodynamic engineering done on this project is visible through vehicle’s original front bumper, the new front fascia with redesigned carbon fiber grill, and the new front lip splitter with enhanced down-pressure on the front axle.

The carbon fiber side flaps support road stability by supporting the pressure between the axles. On the other hand, the rear of the car includes a carbon fiber rear diffuser that has a revised tunnel set-up by adding 2 fins, and a brand new exhaust, made of pure Titanium, which also delivers a “monster” sound.

What is more, the car’s weight has been reduced. The most fierce feature of the car however, is the rear wing, which delivers a sense of perfection. The latter includes a ground braking new surface design, which brakes the wind and continues to support on the aerodynamics.

DMC McLaren HS-12 Velocita SE runs on diamond forged alloy rims in sizes 9,5 x 21 at the front, and 12.5 x 21 at the rear, coupled with a 255/30 ZR21 and 355/25 ZR21 tyres for the front and rear respectively.

Source: DMC

September 23, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track Hard Top

Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track Hard Top pays tribute to the Defender model, being its unique and artistic interpretation. For this project the tuners at A. Kahn Design have chosen an honest and minimalist approach and in such way have augmented its design.

The design of this transformed Land Rover model combines the mechanical perfection and exterior beauty, and features quality and high-tech engineering. The exterior of the Defender was decided in volcanic rock satin color which adds exclusivity to the stance of this vehicle.

In addition, in this tuning were also featured front and rear wide wings with integrated vents and bolt apertures, bonnet vents with stainless steel mesh, fog lamps, headlamp grilles with stainless steel mesh, crosshair military headlights, side vents with stainless steel mesh, front grille with stainless steel mesh, Kahn prototype wing badges, Kahn oval tailgate badge.

To be even more aggressive on the road, the professionals at A. Kahn Design have given the vehicle 8×16 inch 1948 Defend wheels in satin black, fitted with 235x85x16 inch tyres. Other highlights here include the custom made Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover, exhaust shields and mud flaps.

The transformation continues in the interior as well, which is made to harmonically match the exclusivity of the exterior. The Wide Track Defender benefits of supreme ergonomic comfort by the means of front sports GTB seats in quilted and perforated leather, single spoke steering wheel, Churchill time clock facia insert in red, dashboard, instrument binnacle, rear door panel and handle in Harris Tweed, and vented foot pedals in machined aluminium.

Source: A. Kahn Design

September 20, 2013

Step Out Of Line: Citroen DS3 [VIDEO]

The newest Citroen DS3 advertisement, named “Step Out Of Line” reflects the non-conformist stance of the DS line. In fact, through this commercial the brand aims to motivate everyone to express their own personality.

The ad was filmed in some of the most famous streets of Paris – Boulevard Haussman, Place des Victoires, Pont de l’Europe, which were closed specially for the occasion. In addition, it also includes a cast of almost 250 extras wearing 500 costumes.

As one can see, the clip shows hundreds of men and women that are all marching in step in military-style parades. Whether they are businessmen, elegant women or fashion victims, what is common between them is that they are all strictly identical and march in tune to the music by DiscoBitch.

The parade continues until “Step out of Line” appears. At this point the Citroen DS3s and DS3 Cabrios, which are all different, make their appearance. The different combinations of bodywork, wheels, roofs and upholstery, emphasize that the vehicle are customizable and express individuality – in other words, they refuse to be submit the established codes.

httpv://youtu.be/mFE1GC2CFYA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Citroen

September 20, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova