Lidia Todorova – Page 218 – Automobiles Review

Frankfurt Motor Show: 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet Makes World Debut

2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet makes its world public premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. What makes this model different from the Saloon version is that its dimensions have grown in order to achieve sleeker profile and provide the capacity for complete soft-top concealment in open mode.

To be more precise its length has increased from 4.24 to 4.42 metres, its wheelbase from 2.58 to 2.60 metres and its width from 1.77 to 1.79 metres. Only its height of 1.41 metres is down on its predecessor, by 15 millimetres. The luggage capacity has also been increased to 60 litres (2.12 cubic ft).

When looked from the front, this Audi model is characterised by the single frame radiator grille, which is flanked by flat headlamps. They consist of either halogen or xenon bulbs, or can be optionally equipped LED headlamp technology.

The two-door car is harmonized additionally by the rear overhang, while the windscreen frame is made of aluminium. On the sides of the A3 Cabrio is featured a taut tornado line and contoured surfaces.

More importantly, for the soft top the designers have utilized soft fabric roof that is stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel. With just a push of a button the top opens or closes electro-hydraulically in less than 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The acoustic soft top has a glass rear window and will be offered in black, grey and brown color, while its roof liner can be specified in black or lunar silver. As an option the brand also offers here a wind deflector and head-level heating. An active rollover protection system which comprises of two spring-loaded plates that are recessed into the body protects the occupants in case of a rollover accident.

Next, the interior of the car retains the elegant design philosophy of the exterior. Elegant lines, clean surfaces and high quality can be seen throughout it. Highlight here is the electrically retractable 5.8-inch colour monitor which features Driver’s Information System. For the first time here is also included an optional lighting package with a touch-sensitive switch for the reading lights.

As one can see the steering wheel and seats have brand new design. Depending on the trim levels – SE, Sport and S line, the seats can be finished in either cloth or a combination of cloth and leather, with full leather and an Alcantara/leather mix.

The assistance systems featured in this model include adaptive cruise control, Audi side assist, Audi active lane assist, camera-based traffic sign/speed limit recognition, park assist with selective display and the Audi pre sense safety system. On the other hand, the line-up of infotainment components includes Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI Navigation plus.

To go further, three newly developed engines will be available for the Audi A3 Cabriolet: the two TFSI engines which generate 140 hp (103 kW) and 180 hp (132 kW) from 1.4 and 1.8 litres of engine displacement, as well as the 2.0 TDI which produces 150 hp (110 kW). The other engines offered range from the 1.6 TDI with 110 hp (80 kW) to the 2.0 TFSI with 300 hp (220 kW). All of the powertrains, use direct injection and turbocharging and are backed up by a start-stop-system.

The chassis of the 2014 Audi A3 Cabriolet utilizes MacPherson strut front and four-link rear setup which includes lightweight aluminium elements. The sports suspension has bee lowered by 15mm. S line versions will offer three choices – standard suspension, sports suspension and S line sports suspension lowered by a further 10mm over the sports set-up.

The driving experience is further enhanced by the power steering, S tronic transmission and air conditioning, the optional adaptive suspension control system Audi magnetic ride, adaptive cruise control, adaptive light and progressive steering.

The power steering system for instance includes an efficient electromechanical drive, and ESC stabilisation control system. In support of this, powerful and durable brakes can be seen behind wheels, which range in size from 16 to 19 inches.

Source: Volkswagen

September 9, 2013

Official Debut For Smart Fourjoy In Frankfurt

The new smart fourjoy is a proof that more than two seats are also fully in keeping with the smart brand experience. The new vehicle has all the typical attributes for the brand and comes to deliver to the occupants pure carefree enjoyment of drive. The compact four-seater is the first of new smart generation and it will have its world premiere at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Smart fourjoy has no doors, no rear window and an open roof. The futuristic exterior design is continued in the interior which includes rear seat bench in the style of lounge furniture. Of course, the car retains the compact dimensions typical for the brand. It is 3494 mm long, 1978 mm wide and 1494 high.

Furthermore, this smart utilizes an electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor which delivers zero-local-emission. In addition, the design elements featured here stay true to the brand’s philosophy and include extremely short overhangs, wheels positioned on the four most outer points, tail lights integrated in the sturdy tridion cell and spherical instrument cluster.

Next, the exterior is exquisite and includes polished aluminium and white pearlescent paintwork. The three-dimensional upright front further strengthens the expressive appearance of the smart fourjoy.

Another highlight here is the pronounced tridion cell. It is made of polished full-aluminium and its brilliant bright lustre finish highlights the premium character of the brand. The raised smart lettering milled from aluminium on the side skirts continues this design scheme.

In addition, the pearlescent white on the bumpers, front bonnet and tailgate provides a contrast to the aluminium of the tridion cell. The door mirrors “float” on an aluminium stele. On the other hand, the rear lights are built in the tridion cell.

The headlamps do not have a glass cover and this delivers a three-dimensional impression of the U-shaped daytime running lights. Moreover, LEDs are featured in the front and tail lights. Transparent petroleum-coloured moulded parts are to be seen in the wind deflector at the top of the front windscreen, on the A-pillars on the sides and on the rear roof spoiler.

The fact that the vehicle doesn’t have any doors, rear window or roof panel, connects the exterior and the interior. Inside, the most prominent features are the two futuristic-looking front seats and the rear seat bench.

The rear of the seats is made of dark chrome. The same petroleum colour as the plexiglass accents on the exterior is used at the piping-like line winds around the sides of the seats. In addition, perforated and smooth surfaces alternate on the vehicle floor.

A continuous central structure supports the seats and the instrument panel, which includes a convex surface with touch-sensitive operating functions. The instrument panel is support of transparent, illuminated plexiglass into which apertures have been milled.

The spherical instrument cluster and the single-spoke steering wheel are reminiscent of the original smart. On the dashboard there are also mounted two smartphones and on the centre tunnel at the rear for cutting-edge connectivity and tailor-made entertainment for all passengers.

More importantly, the electric drive is positioned at the rear and is based on the current smart fortwo electric drive. It is a 55 kW magneto-electric motor which utilizes lithium-ion battery which a capacity of 17.6 kWh. When the battery is entirely empty it takes a maximum of seven hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station.

Source: Smart

September 5, 2013

World Premiere Of Lexus LF-NX Crossover Concept

Lexus is going to bring to this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show a brand new mid-size crossover concept, called LF-NX. The concept vehicle will probably be included in the future model range.

LF-NX includes a hybrid powertrain and in fact it is powered by a new variation of the Lexus Hybrid Drive full hybrid system which was additionally tuned for SUV performance. In addition, the powerfully sculpted styling reflects the evolution of the L-finesse design language which is used in today’s Lexus models.

The front of the vehicle includes a strong interpretation of Lexus’s spindle grille and a signature arrangement of the front lights. The daytime running lights are further visually strengthened by their new position, which is independent from the headlamps. New also are the front corners, which separate the bumper from the front wings with a sharp vertical cut line.

In profile, the new SUV concept displays muscular wheel arches, which are additionally edged with a black protective finish. Above the belt line, which has a diamond shape, is the side glazing arranged in the classic profile. In fact, it creates an athletic coupe-like silhouette because it works with the steep rake of the tailgate.

Going to the rear, one sees an emphasized lamp clusters which extend down the full depth of the bumper. This also creates a sharp and aerodynamic trailing edge. The exterior of the concept is decided in new Brushed Metal Silver finish. It immediately makes a striking impression.

Furthermore, the interior of the vehicle completes the futuristic design philosophy of the exterior and includes powerful forms and a highly ergonomic driver’s cockpit. As a matter of fact, the cabin follows the “Human Oriented” element of Lexus’s L-finesse design.

To be more precise, the dashboard is divided between an upper display zone and lower operation zone, which enables an ease of interaction with the concept vehicle’s next generation technology. The latter features touch-sensitive electrostatic switches and a new touchpad Remote Touch Interface design. The interior of the premium crossover is reinforced by carved metal surfacing, sophisticated blue instrument lighting and yellow and black leather upholstery with contrast stitching.

Source: Lexus

September 5, 2013

Debut For Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept

Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept vehicle is going to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show. There it will showcase to the audience that it includes unique new visual stance and colour scheme, materials and finish.

The car is in the form of limited edition concept and it is being readied for future development into a MY2014 production version. The production car will maintain the same personality and quality of the current Quattroporte range.

Ermenegildo Zegna’s concept is the result of collaboration between two companies that are connected by history, tradition and exclusivity. First, the exterior of this limited edition Maserati Quattroporte includes a special effect paint finish which simulates the fluidity and purity of metal. This was achieved through the utilization of ultra-fine aluminium pigments.

In addition, the gloss black primer further strengthens the brilliance of the aluminium pigments and creates a sensation of depth. The platinum metal colour effect finish is also nuanced in order to express the Maserati’s classic and sophisticated technically advanced character.

The interior of the Maserati Quattroporte Ermenegildo Zegna Limited Edition Concept car continues the luxury design philosophy of the exterior. Inside were used warm hues like moka and greige, that make a link to Zegna’s latest men’s fashion collections. Furthermore, the interior components such as seats, door panels and roof lining are finished in soft leather, in addition to a velvet-smooth and bright fabric.

Source: Maserati

September 5, 2013

Revolutionary Citroen Cactus Concept Finally Revealed [VIDEO]

After the first images of the new Citroen Cactus Concept leaked yesterday, the French car company is now ready to make a full reveal of its new concept, showing that the new Cactus is a vision for future C-line models. The new concept shows a unique harmony between the distinctive and the practical and at the same time offers great levels of comfort for all passengers with easy-to-use technology.

First of all, the new Citroen vehicle is created to deliver pure and functional styling, which focuses mainly on efficiency because of its lightweight and aerodynamic credentials. The high-tech look and the non-aggressive flowing surfaces are visible, and are strengthen by the ne revolutionary “Airbumps”. The latter are customizable design components covered with a soft skin including air capsules that protect the body of the car.

Citroen states that it has included an intelligent design in this car, which features an airy driver’s station housing all the controls in a 100% digital interface, sofa-style front seats for more comfort, natural materials laid out in a stylish and relaxed atmosphere.

Furthermore, the car utilizes a user-friendly technology. A Hybrid Air drivetrain is responsible for economic running costs and decreased environmental footprint, while the intuitive connectivity offers an access to the Citroen Multicity Connect portal.

The main idea which had to be manifested regarding the styling was to keep only the essential and to explore new solutions to bring customers useful equipment and features. Hence, the shape that is both original yet familiar, features pure and smooth surfaces in pearlescent white, flowing contours, floating roof and rear quarter panels, contrasting and functional detailing such as Lama grey ‘Airbumps’, textured black wheel arches and gloss black roof rack, bright and airy cabin with a large panoramic sunroof.

The revolutionary “Airbump” of the Cactus Concept is positioned on the sides and bumpers of the car. This element not only strengthens the appearance and personality of the vehicle, but also is made with supple material that resists scratches and includes air capsules that absorb impacts.

The proportions of the concept are optimized for efficiency and comfort with and deliver dimensions of a compact hatchback (4.21 m long and 1.75 m wide). It includes a high ground clearance (21 cm) but with an optimized height of just 1.53 m. The overhangs were reduced and the wheels are directly located at each corner.

Next, the front of the Cactus is characterized by smooth surfaces showcasing the chevrons, flowing lines with progression from bonnet to wing, high-tech light signature with LED daytime running lights and lamps built in to the ‘Airbumps’. The same principle is continued at the rear with Citroen’s 3D-effect LEDs, which are built into the large ‘Airbump’ that protects the boot area.

Furthermore, in terms of interior the cabin was refined and features new architecture, design, colors and materials as well as greater space and comfort for the occupants. The slender, floating dashboard fully frees up the floor below to create a large, easy-access storage space on the passenger side.

Inside, there is also a 100% digital interface and includes instrument cluster with a 7-inch screen, swapping control buttons for an 8-inch touchscreen connected to all vehicle functions, passenger airbag on the ceiling and push-button controls on the lower part of the dashboard and steering-wheel paddles. Another innovation is the thermally-treated panoramic sunroof. It brings light into the cabin, but repels heat and UV rays.

The comfort was enhanced via the front seats, which were designed in the style of a sofa, whilst the treatment of the upper storage areas and interior door handles were inspired by luxury luggage styling. Throughout the cabin were utilized natural materials such as cotton fabric and ‘camel’ leather (vegetable tanned), that was also included on the steering wheel trim, seats and door handles.

More importantly, the Cactus concept includes brand’s Hybrid Air drivetrain. The latter is a full-hybrid, compressed air and hydraulics system, which is combined with a PureTech engine to deliver great fuel economy in excess of 94mpg (under 3l/100km).

Citroen Cactus Concept will make its official world debut at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

httpv://youtu.be/ELyoGxoG004

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Citroen

September 5, 2013

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Racing Series To Debut In Frankfurt

At the official Facebook page of Mercedes-AMG was just revealed a unique vehicle – the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Racing Series. Not many details have been revealed so far, however it is visible that the car has the authentic racing attributes, competitive technology and spectacular design.

It was also announced that this special Mercedes-Benz is close-to-production and it is planned for the highly popular racing series with 2-liter turbocharged vehicles. The CLA 45 AMG on which the current model is based was launched in 2013 and was equipped with the most powerful series production 4-cylinder engine.

The race car version would probably adapt the engine performance and technical specifications. A possibility is also to be included here a permanent all-wheel drive and pure front-wheel drive. The engine of the sports car will be mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports gearbox takes.

Body panels made of carbon-fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) and specific aerodynamic components will make possible the lightweight design of the car and will also provide top-level racing competitiveness. As one can see, the interior is focused on pure function with numerous safety and race car features.

Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Racing Series will debut at Frankfurt Motor Show.

Source: Mercedes-AMG Official Facebook Page

September 4, 2013

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept Gets Fully Unveiled

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Concept is finally revealed after being teased several times. The brand’s best selling Yaris has been turned into a dynamic track or road car thanks to applied high-performance engineering and advanced hybrid technology, which was inspired by TS030 hybrid Le Mans race car.

The new model will make its world premiere next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, where it will show a future development of hybrid technology which aims to achieve maximum performance and enhanced driving pleasure.

This Toyota’s hybrid powertrain combines a highly tuned 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and two powerful electric motors. Together they are capable of delivering a total output of 313kW (420hp). In addition, the direct-injection turbo has been adapted to racing conditions, provides 224kW (300hp) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque to drive the front wheels.

At the rear, each wheel of the vehicle is powered by a 45kW (60hp) electric motor. This results in an intelligent electric four-wheel drive capability. The motors produce electricity during braking and then aid the petrol engine during acceleration.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has several modes which are controlled via a button on the steering wheel. First, the “Road” mode is suitable for everyday driving, while the “Track” mode is better for competition. The latter model makes full use of available performance, with the rear electric motors able to reach a combined maximum power peak of 90 kW (120 hp) for up to five seconds.

There is also a third 45kW electric motor, which is positioned between the engine and the six-gear sequential transmission. It can work as an advanced traction-control system. In addition, the twin rear electric motors can improve the handling characteristics during cornering.

The hybrid system operates in conjunction with the 1.6-litre turbo engine. Depending on the state of charge of the battery, the new Concept can be driven in full electric mode for short distances.

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R has new design cues. For instance it adopts the new headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details, which make the perfect contrast with the white body colour.

Furthermore, the front bumper now includes two large air intakes and blue LED daytime running lights. In addition, the flared fenders house 18-inch TRD wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres. There are also visible grooved and perforated brake discs which are gripped by six-piston callipers in the front and four-piston callipers in the rear.

Going to the rear, the car has a spoiler which is mounted on the roof and the bumper with a big diffuser that includes an exhaust pipe framed by two air extractors. The exterior color scheme is continued in the interior. The dual-tone Recaro bucket seats feature black leather side bolsters and blue Alcantara®. The shift lever of the sequential gearbox is set up to quickly change down gears by pushing the lever forwards, and to change up by pulling it back. The car is fitted a set of sport pedals from the 86 sports coupe.

2013 Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R Key TMG Global Race Engine Specifications:

Engine: 1595cm3
Fuel system: direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Air system: turbo garett GTR2560R (max boost pressure: 2.5 bar)
Air restrictor: 33mm
Max power: more than 224kW (300hp) at 6000rpm
Max torque: 420Nm
Max RPM: 7500rpm

Source: Toyota

September 4, 2013

Volkswagen Golf R Celebrates World Premiere In Frankfurt

2014 Volkswagen Golf R is the most powerful Golf in the range and now it is ready to celebrate its world premiere at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The emblematic Volkswagen model has distinctive design cues which emphasize its sporty character.

The Golf R was especially developed to deliver dynamic performance. It is powered by a newly configured 296 horsepower (198 kW) TSI engine. This makes it with 30 horsepower more powerful; however it is 18 per cent more fuel-efficient than the previous engine.

The maximum torque here was enhanced by 22 pound feet to 380 Nm (280 lb-ft.). Thanks to its sporty characteristics the new model is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

In order to achieve these outputs, the engine went through a motorsports development. The power of the engine is transmitted to the road via a manual gearbox or a dual-clutch DSG® automatic transmission.

In addition, the new 4MOTION® all-wheel drive system is what will deliver optimal traction in any conditions of the track. Standard vehicle specifications include the variable-ratio “progressive” steering, Bi-Xenon headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres.

Furthermore, the car also includes revised styling which additionally emphasizes its sporty character. The design elements which are responsible for this are the distinctive air intakes, specially designed bumpers and side sills, and the dual-branch exhaust system with four chrome tailpipes.

Volkswagen Golf R will be launched on the market by the end of the year.

Source: Volkswagen

September 4, 2013

Audi Sport quattro concept Combines Stunning Looks With 700 Horsepower

Audi Sport quattro concept comes to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Sport Quattro and it will be revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new model continues grand quattro tradition delivering stunning exterior and 700 hp plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The visual stance of the new Audi model is very powerful. Its foursquare appearance can be attributed to the length of 4,602 millimetres, a width of 1,964 millimetres and a height of just 1,386 millimetres. The wheelbase is of 2,784 millimetres.

Audi Sport quattro concept runs purposefully on 21-inch centre-locking wheels with a five twin-spoke design and this additionally enhances the aggressiveness of the car. In order to pay homage to the quattro models of the early 1980s, the new concept includes angular, flat C-pillars and the rectangular double headlights. The latter feature the groundbreaking Matrix LED technology which is to be used in the Audi A8 model.

Going to the front of the car, it is characterized by the hexagonal single-frame grille with new grille insert. The grille’s lower section is virtually vertical, while the low grille highlights the width of the car.

On the other hand, at the rear one can see a combination of a flat greenhouse and broad shoulders. There is also visible a spoiler at the lower edge of the rear window, which emphasizes car’s width.

Another distinctive element at the rear is the CFRP diffuser. In addition, the lower section houses two large tailpipes. The tail lights are mounted on a black CFRP facing and have a rectangular form. Moreover, the luggage compartment has a capacity of 300 litres (10.59 cubic ft).

To go further, the interior of the car continues the purposeful exterior design theme. This Audi includes spacious cabin with the steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and head-up display all in the direct field of view.

More importantly, the cabin of the car is lightweight. This is visible through the support structure of the interior is a carbon shell that also can be utilized as a storage compartment in the side doors.

The attention to detail here is visible through the choice of materials and the workmanship. The multifunction sports steering wheel is an example for this. It is utilized to switch between a numbers of virtual 3D displays.

Another highlight is the new air conditioning control unit. It is integrated directly into the air vents. Thanks to its innovativeness, the temperature, intensity and air flow can be controlled via one and the same element.

More importantly, this Audi Sport quattro concept is equipped with plug-in hybrid drive. This means that it can deliver breathtaking performance from a mighty system output of 700 hp (515 kW) and system torque of 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft).

The power is transmitted on the road via a modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission which includes a sport differential on the rear axle. The car delivers up to 113 mpg, equating to CO2 output of 59 grams per kilometre.

First, the combustion engine is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 one. It solely generates 560 hp (412 kW) and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor is located between the 4.0 TFSI unit and the transmission, it is a disc-shaped electric motor which produces 150 hp (110 kW) and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft). It draws its energy from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery in the rear with a capacity of 14.1 kWh.

The charging here happens via an Audi wall box that utilizes intelligent charge management. Audi Sport quattro concept cover up to 31 miles on electric power alone. The interplay between the two drives is managed via intelligent management system.

In the new concept are available three driving modes. The EV mode is for purely electric driving; the Hybrid mode is for maximum efficiency; and Sport mode is for maximum performance. When the both units work together, the Audi Sport quattro concept accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h only in 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed is 189mph.

At last, the front suspension includes five control arms per wheel, while the rear suspension follows the Audi track-controlled trapezoidal link principle. Tautly tuned springs and dampers puts Audi Sport quattro concept to the road.

Source: Audi

September 4, 2013

Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept Revealed

Ford Mondeo Vignale Concept is new exclusive product which features bold design elements, high quality craftsmanship, exclusive specification and advanced technologies. The model is based on the Mondeo and is especially made for the European market.

The vehicle is in the form of a four-door saloon and includes 20 inch Vignale alloy wheels with in-depth detailing and high-quality finish, “Vignale” badging, chrome door handles and mirror caps, mesh grille, unique front bumper and fog lamp design, and exclusive “Nocciola” dark brown coachwork.

The interior of the new Ford concept model is exquisite and continues the exclusiveness of the exterior. To be more precise, inside one can see quilted trim, chrome lower mouldings, leather armrests, and exclusive seating with “Vignale” detailing and high-quality, soft-touch leather which can also be seen on the steering wheel, instrument panel, centre console, door top-rolls and centre arm-rest.

Other interior details which are exclusive are the embossed scuff plates and luxury floor-mats. The in-car connectivity is ensured by the Ford SYNC MyFord Touch system. Going back to the exterior, one sees new adaptive LED headlamps which improve the visibility and vision.

Ford will unveil additional details on the Vignale Concept in the coming months. The vehicle will be introduced to the marked in early 2015 and will be extended to more models.

Source: Ford

September 4, 2013

2014 Land Rover Discovery Gets Upgraded

2014 Land Rover Discovery has been updated and received new look, badging, fuel stretching technology, enhanced audio systems and wide range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features. However, the vehicle keeps the core attributes of the emblematic model which makes the vehicle even more appealing.

First, 2014 Discovery now has a new front fascia next to the various exterior changes. For instance, a new front grille, front bumper, headlamp design, daytime running lights with a distinctive LED signature, plus two new alloy wheel designs, additionally improve this Land Rover’s visual characteristics.

To make the vehicle even more special and individual, the brand has prepared for its customers an optional “Black Design Pack” that includes 20-inch black alloy wheels and many other benefits.

Next, the refined exterior of the vehicle incorporates a change of the identity. For the first time, the name “Discovery” replaces “Land Rover” on the bonnet and the number 4 will be removed from the tailgate leaving just the word “Discovery”.

In addition, the engine badging will be moved from the tailgate to the each of the front doors, and will appear as “SDV6”. Speaking about the engine, it has received some optimizations, which result in improvement in terms of fuel efficiency.

2014 Land Rover Discovery will be equipped with the 256 hp (188 kW) 3.0 SDV6, which now emits less CO2 emissions. They have been reduced from 230g/km to 213g/km. Additionally, the and fuel consumption was also improved to 35.3mpg. The unit will be mated to and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

At last, the range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features include the following: Wade Sensing, Blind Spot Monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing, Reverse Traffic Detection and T-junction Cameras.

The model will be also offered with the optional Meridian premium audio. On the other hand the standard system features 8 speakers and 380 Watts of power, while the Meridian Surround system generates an impressive 825 Watts output and includes 17 speakers.

Technical Specifications of 2014 Land Rover Discovery

2014 Land Rover Discovery (UK)	3.0L V6 Diesel (UK/Euro)
Engine type	3.0L SDV6 Diesel
Power PS/rpm	256PS@4000
Torque Nm/rpm	600@2000
0-60mph secs	8.8
Max speed mph (km/h)	112 (180)
CO2 g/km	213
Combined mpg (L/100k)	35.3 (8.0)
Kerb weight kg	2570

Source: Land Rover

September 3, 2013

Caterham Seven 165 Prototype With Frankfurt Unveil

Caterham Seven Prototype Concept is going to be unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show. A month ago, the British manufacturer has revealed more details about the variant of the iconic Seven. The vehicle will be named Caterham Seven 165 and it will be capable of producing 80 hp (59 kW) thanks to its 660cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged Suzuki K6A engine.

The latter was enhanced by the Caterham -Technology & Innovation (CTI) group of engineering. Furthermore, the number five at the end of the car’s name shows that the vehicle also complies with the EU5 emissions standards.

Although the Suzuki powerplant is compact in nature, CTI has refined it and hence it now delivers enhanced performance including a torque output of 107 Nm (79 lb-ft). The engine was also well balanced against amplified fuel economy and reduced vehicle emissions.

Earlier this year Caterham has launched the fastest, most powerful production Seven. Now, with the Seven 165, the brand aims to deliver a car which sits at the opposite end of the scale, both in terms of engine size and price. However, both vehicles will have one thing in common which is the same level of pure driving fun.

The production of the Caterham Seven 165 will start in January nest year. The car will have a price tag of circa €25 000.

Source: Caterham

September 3, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova