Author: Lidia Todorova

  • Suzuki B King by Art Studio Vilner

    Vilner-Suzuki-B-King-THUMBWe have seen so far that the professionals at the Bulgarian luxury tuning company Vilner are not only experienced in the entire transformation of automobiles, but also in giving motorbikes new and extremely exquisite look. Today, they are exclusively revealing to the readers of automobilesreview.com their new project.

    Under the spotlight is the Suzuki B King which was manufactured back in 2007. It utilizes a 1,340 cc engine, which is capable of producing 181 horsepower (135 kW) at 9500 rpm and 108 lb-ft (146 Nm) of torque at 7200 rpm.

    The owner of the motorbike took individuality very seriously. For this reason he desired only subtle changes on the B King that will make it look different and individual. Of course, the specialists took care of this task by adding seven new details to the Suzuki.

    What they have basically done is to change the tail by replacing the original exhaust system with new one that is entirely made of carbon fibre. In addition, the black details around the headlight contribute towards more predatory visual stance of the front.

    What rounds-off the transformation is the detail under the radiator. At last, the bike is given a new seat made of ostrich leather, while for the lightning at the rear are now taking care new LED indicators and tail-light.

  • Techart Transforms Porsche 911 Carrera 4

    The tuning company Techart has created an individualization program for Porsche 911 Carrera 4. The already available aerodynamic kit for this Porsche is complemented by new valve-controlled Techart Exhaust System Racing with central outflow, Techart Noselift System, carbon fibre interior styling packages in new colours as well as illuminated Techart door entry guards.

    To go further into details, the valve-controlled Exhaust System Racing with central outflow replaces Porsche’s series-standard 4-pipe one hence delivering more aggressive and sporty look to the vehicle. The exhaust system is managed via the sport button on the centre console and it also contributes for the astounding acoustic performance of the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S.

    In addition, this exhaust system can be utilized even when closed under full load across the entire speed range. Also available here are the Techart Sport Muffler Racing and the valve-controlled Techart Sport Exhaust System combined with dual Techart Sport Tailpipes.

    At the front is visible the Techart Noselift System which adds 60 mm ground clearance at front spoiler by raising the vehicle level. The system can be activated both when the car is still or in motion. The vehciel automatically lowers itself at speeds of over 60 km/h.

    Furthermore, the two-part Techart Front Spoiler I with integrated splitter decreases the lift on the front axis of the Porsche by 5 kg at a speed of 140 km/h. Next, the Techart Rear Spoiler II creates an additional 17.5 kg of downforce at the same speed when combined with the Techart Diffuser on the rear of the vehicle.

    Two Aero Wings is built into the front air inlets and they give the 911 Carrera a dynamic shaft outline. Techart Side Skirts are positioned at vehicle’s wing, while Techart trims for headlights and side mirrors deliver more visual highlights.

    Another highlight here is that this program includes Formula IV light-alloy wheel in 5-twin-spoke design, in dimensions 20- and 21-inch. The weight reduced TECHART Formula III forged wheel are offered optionally.

    The transformation continues inside. Throughout the interior can be seen new illuminated Techart Aluminium Door Entry Guards, ergonomically shaped 3-spokes Multifunctional Sport Steering Wheel with Paddle Shifters, Aluminium Sport Pedals and TECHART Aluminium Foot Rest.

    Also present are the decorative stitching, backrests for sport seats Plus in leather, safety belts or Interior Styling Packages in coloured carbon fibre. The dashboard instruments were also refined and now include easily readable Techart dials, harmonized rings and Sport Chrono device in leather.

    Source: Techart

  • New Technology Features For 2014 Chevrolet Impala [VIDEO]

    2014-Chevrolet-Impala-ACC-THUMB2014 Chevrolet Impala is going to be equipped with full-speed-range adaptive cruise control. This new feature will considerably decrease the number of repeated stops and starts during every day driving.

    In fact, this 2014 Impala is the first Chevrolet vehicle which will offer this technology. The latter addresses the continuous task of braking and accelerating via a cruise control system that in turn allows the driver to maintain a driver-selected following gap with the vehicle ahead.

    This full-speed-range adaptive cruise control system utilizes forward-looking radar, which allows the driver to choose the three gaps at which to follow the car ahead. These gaps are adaptable to the selected cruise speed. Therefore is ensured a larger distance between the cars at a higher cruise speed. In addition, the system automatically accelerates and stops the vehicle up to moderate levels in order to maintain the chosen gap.

    Furthermore, the Adaptive Cruise Control still needs driver’s full attention to the road condition, because when needed he or she can override the system and manually accelerates or stop. This new technology addition to the Impala can dramatically decrease the workload and stress associated with the everyday task of car following.

    Two other features include in the car, will provide help in order to avoid or reduce the damage caused by crashes. The firs one is Forward Collision Alert, which signals when the driver is approaching a vehicle in front of them too quickly or if they are following much too closely.

    The second is the Crash Imminent Braking that is offered with the ACC package and can intervene to automatically apply the brakes. Other available features on the Impala include Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Vision Camera, and Ultrasonic Rear Part Assist.

    httpv://youtu.be/dg_HBuCB4Gw

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Nissan Safari Rally Z To Be Restored

    Nissan-Safari-Rally-Z-THUMBNissan Restoration Club has just announced that it is going to restore the legendary Nissan Safari Rally Z. This vehicle is in fact one of the few true sports cars in history which can lay claim to not only being a road-racing champion, but also a true rally legend.

    Nissan‘s Restoration Club was formed back in 2006 and since then it brings brand’s cars with a abundant motorsports heritage back to life. In fact, the club consists of a small group of volunteer members from the company’s R&D department who all share the same passion to see Nissan’s historic racecars fully operational again.

    The other projects that the club had undertaken so far are eight vehicles among which are the legendary 1964 Skyline racecar, the “Fuji” and “Sakura” Datsun 210s and 1947 Tama electric vehicle. And now it is ready to give its full attention to a very special variant of the Fairlady Z (Datsun 240Z in the United States), called the Safari Rally Z.

    Back in the days, Safari Rally Z won two championships of the East African Safari Rally in 1971 and 1973. The racecar which is going to be restored is the winner of the 19th Safari Rally in 1971.

    At that event the car was driven by Edgar Hermann and Hans Schuller, and features a closed, fast-back coupe body and a 2393cc OHC inline-6 engine which delivered 215 horsepower (158 kW). Now, the racecar is a proud part of Nissan’s Heritage Collection and its restoration will be completed in December 2013.

    Source: Nissan

  • New Photoshoot For 2013 Prior-Design Audi R8 PD GT850

    2013-Prior-Design-Audi-R8-PD-GT850-THUMBPrior Design Audi R8 GT850 Widebody is a transformation which we already know very well. However, the specialists at the tuning company have just released some new stunning images of the car which a worth ones attention.

    As seen on the images, the Audi R8 has masterful presence due to the V10 engine that lies under its hood. This means that Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 offers exceptional performance. The 5.2 litre engine can generate up to 525 hp (386 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. This on the other hand results only in excellent acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h, which is 4.1 seconds.

    Having all these facts in mind, the professionals at Prior-Design have created for this Audi, the PD GT850 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit. To be more precise, the kit consists of the following: PD GT850 front bumper, PD GT850 front lip spoiler (for PD GT850 front bumper), PD GT850 side skirts, PD GT850 rear bumper, PD GT850 rear diffusor, PD GT850 front fenders, PD GT850 rear widenings, PD GT850 front bonnet and PD GT850 rear trunk spoiler.

    All of the elements utilized here are made from quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) material which has excellent surface finish and provides enough flexibility. In addition, the parts are all made with excellent fitment with no modifications or changes needed.

    Source: Prior-Design

  • BMW Concept X5 Security Plus Offers Enhanced Protection For Occupants

    BMW-Concept-X5-Security-Plus-THUMBAlong with many other concepts BMW will be presenting at the Frankfurt Motor Show the third generation of a Security version based – the BMW Concept X5 Security Plus. This vehicle is the only one in its class which fulfills the requirements of protection level VR6.

    The car delivers all-round protection against violent assault, kidnapping and organized crime. BMW Concept X5 Security Plus combines effective occupant protection and generous comfort with the dynamic performance, agility and versatility.

    The vehicle is built around an armored passenger cell which was constructed from steel moldings and panels. And in order to prevent a penetrating bullet or fragment the car includes sealed joints in the critical areas around doors or where panels adjoin body pillars.

    Of course, there is also a security glass which was especially made for such protection. Inside of the glass there is a special treatment of polycarbonate coating. Furthermore, this BMW is equipped with the powerful 450 hp (330 kW) V8 petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

    Based on a regular BMW X5 production model, this concept features a modified chassis, electronic management systems and brake system, which have been adapted to the enhanced vehicle weight. Another advantage of the BMW Security model is the discreet integration of security features. This means that BMW Concept X5 Security Plus does not differ visually from a regular production model.

    Of course, this Concept model also delivers the same comfort and convenience of the regular one. It features ergonomic design, spaciousness and choice of optional equipment. Here an Intelligent Emergency Call system is standard, but there are also extensive communication and information features and wide range of driver assistance systems optionally available. Other options for this model are the LED strobe lights in the radiator grille, roof beacons with a siren system and an auxiliary battery.

    Source: BMW

  • Volvo Announces Engines Included In V60 Sportswagon Model Range

    Volvo is a company that always targets best-in-class performance and fuel economy. Now the brand is announcing the engines which are to be included in the Volvo V60 Sportswagon. The model will go on sale in the United States in January 2014.

    The V60 will provide its customers with the handling of a dynamic sports sedan but will also offers versatility for those who need a wagon. The car will be powered by a range of engine choices (listed below). It will include a front-drive power from the new Drive-E family, and all-wheel-drive models which will be powered by engines from Volvo’s current lineup.

    An example of the Drive-E gasoline engines that are featured is the two-liter, turbocharged, 240-horsepower version. The V60 customers will have the choice between new engine and some current engines. At the top stands the performance-tuned T6 engine, which will be included in the V60 R-Design. It is capable of generating 325 horsepower (239 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque.

    Particular highlight here are the new smaller and lighter Drive-E engines that deliver extremely lower emissions and higher fuel economy. They also offer the opportunity to be enhanced by electrification.

    Volvo V60 Engine Range:

    T5 4 cylinders 2.0 Liter Turbocharged 240 HP 258 lb.-feet FWD New Drive-E
    T5 5 cylinders 2.5 Liter Turbocharged 250 HP 266 lb.-feet AWD Current
    T6 6 cylinders 3.0 Liter Turbocharged 325 HP 354 lb.-feet AWD Current


    Source: Volvo

  • Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring

    Alfa-Romeo-Disco-Volante-by-Touring-THUMBThis year marks the 60th birthday of the legendary Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 ‘Disco Volante’. In order to celebrate this anniversary the prestigious Milanese coachbuilding firm Touring Superleggera created the 2013 edition of the Disco Volante.

    The model presented here is a two-seater Gran Turismo with a entirely bespoke, hand-made carbon fibre and aluminium body. It is equipped with front-central mounted 4.7-litre V8 engine and transaxle rear drive. The Disco Volante reaches a top speed of 180mph and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.2 seconds.

    Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring has a design that combines innovation, emotion and aerodynamic characteristics. Inside, the 2013 Disco Volante includes red LED interior light profiles, and also aeronautical-inspired touches which are featured on the dashboard, instruments and controls. Bespoke leather is used for the upholstery; the seats are wrapped with black Alcantara.

    Touring Superleggera used as a basis the characteristics of Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione. The chassis if the latter forms the basis for the coach-built bodywork of the vehicle. Alfa 8C’s steel space-frame, the frame members and the central carbon cell were also retained.

    In addition, what also has been kept here are the engine bay and firewall, the windscreen and cowl, the A-pillar and the locks and hinges as well as the dashboard, instruments, pedals and steering wheel. Modification underwent the doorframes, roof frame and C-pillar in order to match the new shape of the car.

    The engine included here, as mentioned, is the 4.7 litre V8 one, which generates 450 hp (330 kW) and 480 Nm (355 lb-ft) of peak torque. It is coupled with a six-speed, sequential transaxle gearbox with electronic control and paddle-shift gear selection. In combination with the limited-slip differential and braking system with large diameter, ventilated discs, they deliver excellent driving dynamics and exciting ride.

    In order to guarantee the torsional stiffness and noise reduction of the car, a very special attention has been paid to the under-body structure, the tubular frames supporting the rear wings and bumper, and the roll bar joining the C-pillars.

    Disco Volante has lightweight bodywork thanks to the use of a combination of aluminium and carbon fibre. The latter element is utilized for specific components such as the front bumper and grille, the bonnet, the side skirts, the boot lid and the integrated rear-window frame.

    The bonnet and boot lid are sandwich-built with Nomex filler to obtain a superior stiffness/weight ratio and to dampen vibration and noise. On the other hand, aluminium panels are hand-made using an epoxy mould.

    PERFORMANCE
    Top speed (est) 292kph / 181mph
    Acceleration (est) 0-100kph (0-62mph) in 4.2seconds
    DIMENSIONS
    Length 4,620mm
    Width 2,032mm
    Height 1,309mm
    Wheelbase 2,640mm
    Track front/back 1,591mm/1,589mm
    Boot volume 142-litres
    Fuel tank capacity 88-litres
    ENGINE
    Cylinders / type 8 / V  90°
    Cubic capacity 4,691cm³
    Nominal output 331kw/450HP@7,000rpm
    Max torque 480Nm@4750rpm
    Emission level Euro 5
    ECONOMY
    Urban 23.6l/100km (12mpg)
    Extra-Urban 11.4l/100km (24.8mpg)
    Combined 15.8l/100km (17.9mpg)
    CO2 emissions 377g/km (combined)
    DRIVELINE
    Rear wheel drive
    6-speed, electroactuated sequential gearbox with paddle-shift control and automatic mode
    Limited slip differential
    WHEELS
    Tyres Pirelli PZero Rosso, front 245/35 ZR20, rear 285/35 ZR20
    Wheel type Aluminium forged wheels

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • First Details Revealed: Honda Civic Type R [VIDEO]

    Honda-Civic-Type-R-Testing-THUMBHonda has revealed some details around the extremely anticipated new Civic Type R at brand Frankfurt Motor Show Press Conference. The new vehicle will be powered by a direct injection turbocharged 2-litre engine which will produce at least 280 horsepower (205 kW).

    The new Civic Type R went through its paces by Honda’s WTCC driver Gabriele Tarquini and in addition the Japanese company has released already a short film about it. The latter shows the storming performance and handling of the car on the Nurburgring and can be viewed below.

    The ambition of Honda is to make the Civic Type R the fastest front wheel drive car around the infamous Nurburgring circuit in Germany. However, there are two more years of development ahead of the car before it goes on sale in 2015.

    The company has also confirmed that the Civic Tourer will deliver extremely low CO2 emissions from just 99g/km and an excellent fuel economy of 74.3 mpg when powered by Honda’s 1.6 i-DTEC engine.

    httpv://youtu.be/ZIJ6Kh1Fvzg

    httpv://youtu.be/aha-DQB3xDY

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Honda

  • Frankfurt Motor Show: 2014 Nissan Rogue

    2014-Nissan-Rogue-THUMBNissan debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue compact utility vehicle (CUV). In Europe the car will carry the name Nissan X-TRAIL. The new model offers user-friendly combination of right-sized exterior, flexible interior and low environmental impact.

    The 2014 Rogue’s exterior design delivers high-quality look and feel. The car is equipped with standard LED signature daytime running lights, outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and rear spoiler. As an option there are also available LED headlights, power panoramic moonroof and a power rear liftgate.

    For the first time, the new Nissan model will be available with optional 3-row/7-passenger seating. This was made possible due to the improved interior packaging efficiency. Throughout the interior one can enjoy the innovative Divide ‘n Hide Cargo System that provides 18 adjustable variations (two-row models) between the cargo and occupant areas.

    Also the rear-seat passengers will also have enough leg- and headroom. In addition, the EZ Flex™ Seating System features a reclining 40/20/40-split second row seat and second row legroom of 37.9 inches and 9.0 inches of fore/aft adjustability.

    Other standard interior equipment features Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant. As an option the brand offers NissanConnect with Navigation and NissanConnect Apps, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Collision Warning.

    Under the hood of 2014 Nissan Rogue hides the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine which produces 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transmitted in the road via standard Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission).

    Other 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. An enhanced level of driving confidence is secured by the new suite of confidence-inspiring dynamic technologies: Active Trace Control, Active Engine Braking and Active Ride Control.

    Regarding the fuel economy, it is estimated at 33 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models. In fact, 2014 Rogue carries the distinctive “PURE DRIVE” badge, which signifies Nissan’s commitment to developing more environmentally friendly vehicle.

    2014 Nissan Rogue is scheduled to go on sale in November with a starting price of $22 490 USD.

    2014 Nissan Rogue Pricing:

    Rogue S FWD $22,490 USD
    Rogue SV FWD $24,230 USD
    Rogue SL FWD $28,070 USD
    Rogue S AWD $23,840 USD
    Rogue SV AWD $25,580 USD
    Rogue SL AWD $29,420 USD

    Source: Nissan

  • Rolls-Royce Ghost Golden Sunbird Unveiled On Facebook

    Rolls-Royce-Ghost-Golden-Sunbird-THUMBThe one-off Rolls-Royce Ghost Golden Sunbird has just been unveiled on the official Facebook page of the luxury company. Being a true Rolls-Royce it includes many bespoke motifs which in this case were inspired by the excellent craftsmanship found in an ancient Chinese artefact.

    The design of this unique model features all hand-made embroidery, veneers and coachline motif. The colours of the paint, interior and golden treadplates complement the Sunbird and make it even more exquisite.

    The exterior is decided in two colors – white and golden, in order to match the design concept. The same philosophy is applied to the nine spoke wheels at thee center of which we can see the brand’s logo enclosed by a golden circle. This two-tone design manner is continued throughout the interior, although the predominant color here is the golden-brownish one.

    This Rolls-Royce Ghost is powered by 6.6 litre V12 engine which produces 563 hp (414 kW) and 780 Nm (575 lb-ft) of torque. The time this car needs to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h is only 4.7 seconds and the top speed is 155 mph.

    The Ghost is equipped with automatic ZF eight-speed gearbox, which transmit the enormous power to the road. The car also includes an intelligent air suspension system for better road behavior, as well as Anti-Roll Stabilisation, Dynamic Brake Control and Dynamic Stability Control.

    Source: Rolls-Royce via Facebook

  • KTW Tuning Gives New Look To Kia Sportage

    KTW-Tuning-Kia-Sportage-Edition-Desperados-THUMBKia Sportage is offered in with gasoline and diesel engines. And for this reason the tuners at KTW Tuning have enhanced not one but two examples of the model, each carrying one of the powertrains.

    The transformed Kia vehicles definitely make surprising impression. The gasoline car is also known as Edition Desperados and includes a 1.6 GDI unit which deliver 135 hp (99 kW). The additional equipment given by the tuning company includes aircon, 6-speed gearbox and wide range of features such as carbon seat heating for driver and co-driver.

    In addition, the team has furnished also the backrests with heating mats. The transformed Sportage now runs on 20” alloy wheels in black which were coupled with tires in 255/30ZR20. The exterior of the car was decided in black and achieved through top wrapping as well as black foiling of the side and rear windows.

    But this is not all of it. KTW has also featured here rim slots, removable trailer coupling, darkly tinted rear taillights and the airbag for driver and co-driver.

    The other Kia is equipped with front driven diesel 1.7 CRD unit, also and it is also known as Edition Desperados. The engine produces 116 hp (85 kW) and the tuning here includes aircon, 6-speed transmission, removable trailer coupling with MOT approved 2,600 kgs of towing capacity, carbon seat heating and airbags for both driver and co-driver.

    Source: Miranda Media