Lidia Todorova – Page 219 – Automobiles Review

Porsche 918 Spyder Celebrates World Debut In Frankfurt

Porsche 918 Spyder is ready to make its international world debut at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show on 10th of September. The super sports car is equipped with plug-in hybrid drive which makes it a technology pioneer. This means that the 918 Spyder combines the dynamic performance of a sports car with the fuel consumption of a compact one.

In addition, at the show, Porsche will also celebrate the anniversary of the 911 model with a limited edition car that is based on the Porsche 911 Carrera S. It will include traditional 911 features with state-of-the-art technology.

A third model will be also revealed in Frankfurt – the new 911 Turbo. What is more, a new generation of the Panamera Gran Turismo will highlight the unique Porsche range, which is going to be presented next to the Panamera S E-Hybrid.

Porsche 918 Spyder is a high-performance hybrid and is also a continuation of the traditional DNA of the brand. It was designed with the aim to be a high-performance hybrid, and therefore it offers 887 hp (652 kW) output.

The vehicle is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in only 2.8 seconds, but manages to offer an average standard fuel consumption of between 94 mpg and 85 mpg. Furthermore, the 918 Spyder also includes an electric motor-based drive that additionally maximizes its dynamic performance.

Source: Porsche

September 3, 2013

Porsche 997 GT3 With New Outfit By Cam Shaft

The German tuning company Cam Shaft is famous for its full-scale or partial car wrapping, coating protection foilings and car styling themes as well as sportive car foiling. Now the specialists are revealing their latest project. They have given the Porsche 997 GT3 a completely new appearance.

First, they wrapped the car full-scale in pearly white foil. Then an individually customized Martini racing design was at hand. The latter starts in the front under a headlight, goes upwards at the car door over the top and descends on the other side downwards. What is important to mention is that Cam Shaft made the foil wrapping of the car to enter the visible door edges.

Furthermore, the tuning of this Porsche did not end with the exterior improvement. There was made an in-house PP performance engine optimization which lead to the improvement of the performance of the power output of the engine. To be more precise, it was raised from 415 hp (305 kW) up to 435 hp (320 kW).

In addition, there were also added 3 KW coilovers in order to make better the driving dynamics of the car. At last, the professionals added original GT3 rims in matt black powder-coated which were delivered by AG-Felgenveredlung Krefeld.

Source: Miranda Media

September 3, 2013

Toyota Unveils Facelifted 2014 LandCruiser Prado [VIDEO]

2014 Toyota LandCruiser Prado now comes in a facelifted version and will include a range of new technologies, design elements and bring about more comfort to the customers. The 2014 Prado range will feature enhanced safety features, better third-row seat access and higher interior and exterior specifications.

One of the exterior improvements of this Toyota model includes daytime running lamps on all models. In addition, major safety upgrades were added such as trailer sway control and emergency brake signal. The trailer sway control for instance gives LandCruiser Prado owners an additional confidence and control when towing.

Other new exterior highlights of the new vehicle are visible on its face. There were added several structural elements from its unique design heritage, a further evolution of the classic Prado grille and a vertical, two-step construction which emphasizes car’s rugged appearance.

Going inside the car, one sees a comprehensive interior which has been upgraded via the new switchgear and instrumentation with enhanced trim and ornamentation, improved second and third row seat designs with new fabrics, and new interior color schemes.

2014 Toyota LandCruiser Prado will be offered with the choice of 4.0-litre petrol or a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine.

httpv://youtu.be/cTSJLAMmB0o

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Toyota

September 2, 2013

McLaren And Jenson Button Launch McLaren GREAT 12C

McLaren has just revealed its latest GREAT campaign liveried car. The vehicle was designed to support and inspire British innovation. It is based on the high-tech McLaren 12C, and in fact the car was emblazoned with the GREAT campaign’s graphics and the message “Innovation is GREAT”.

McLaren GREAT 12C was launched with the support of Jenson Button. The car is equipped with ground-breaking technologies such as one-piece carbon fibre MonoCell chassis that in fact forms the core structure of the car and weighs just 75kg.

The campaign car is powered by 3.8 litre V8 twin turbo engine which is one of the most efficient high-performance units and includes numerous exclusive technologies like Brake Steer and a Proactive Chassis Control System.

With this campaign, the brand aims to be an ambassador for British innovation and to showcase that Britain has leading role in the development of technologies. Moreover, the McLaren 12C is true embodiment of technological creativity and it will most certainly help draw international attention.

The exterior of the car which includes “Innovation is GREAT” logo was designed by McLaren Racing’s graphics team. The car will be on tour over the coming months, but first it will make its first appearance on 3rd of September at an exclusive ‘McLaren 50’ screening of Formula 1 film “RUSH”.

Source: McLaren

September 2, 2013

Refreshed: 2014 Jeep Compass

2014 Jeep Compass will be now equipped with a 6F24 six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission and will include refined exterior and interior. Due to the smoother shifting the Compass will deliver enhanced driving performance and comfort.

Other updates include standard front-seat-mounted side airbags and available ParkView rear backup camera. The latter will be standard on Limited models. Additionally, there is also wide range of safety features included which will help the driver in the city and on off-road trails.

Furthermore, Jeep introduces new trim level called Compass North version which will join the Sport and Limited models. 2014 Compass will be equipped with active Freedom Drive I four-wheel drive system with lock mode.

Engines included here are the efficient 2.2-litre turbo diesel that generates 161 hp (118 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque and two petrol World Engines: the 2.4-litre with power output of 168 hp (124 kW) and torque of 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) and the 2.0-litre developing 154 hp (113 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque.

The range of exterior colors features the following: Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, True Blue, Maximum Steel and Granite Chrystal (Limited only). In addition, exterior of the 2014 Jeep Compass has been upgraded with specific updates. The Limited trim level for example has enhanced front grille with a plated upper grille trim and mold-in-colour Billet Silver grille texture.

What is more, the halogen headlamps now have a black inner bezel, while those on the Limited and North models include chrome fog lamp bezels. On the other hand, the rear features new tail lamps with a new “smoked” inner bezel and a plated chrome insert on the tailgate trim applique. 2014 Jeep Compass Limited runs on 18-inch polished face painted pocket aluminium wheels on Land also has a new “Jeep” badge on the tailgate.

The improvements throughout the interior include new interior trim option on the Limited model and Dark Slate Grey perforated leather seating. Soft-touch materials wrap the armrests and centre console lid, while a satin chrome finish adorns the centre bezel, shifter bezel and pull cups and round out the interior design upgrades.

In terms of safety, the new Compass is equipped with multi-stage front airbags, side-curtain front and rear airbags, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Brake Assist, Brake Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), anti-lock braking system (ABS) with rough-road detection and the sophisticated Hill Start Assist system.

To go further into details, the new 2014 Jeep Compass Sport 4×2 model will be powered by the 2.0-litre petrol engine that delivers 154 hp (113 kW) and will be coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. Standard features on this grade include the following: new acoustic laminated front windshield glass, body-colour exterior door handles and tailgate brow, projector fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome roof side rails, front-seat-mounted side airbags, advanced multistage front driver and passenger air bags, all-row side curtain airbags, front driver and passenger active head restraints, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill-start Assist, anti-lock disc brakes, manual air conditioning, power-heated fold-away exterior mirrors, illuminated keyless entry, premium cloth seats, illuminated cup holders, rear 60/40 split folding seat, fold-flat rear seat, Cruise Control and radio with CD/DVD/MP3.

Next, the 2014 Jeep Compass North will be equipped with the same engine as the previous trim but will add also supplemental front seat side airbags, new body-colour exterior mirrors, deep-tint sunscreen glass, rear view auto dim mirror, cloth & vinyl seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, UConnect Bluetooth, USB port, and 6CD/DVD/MP3.

At last, the 2014 Jeep Compass Limited will have upgraded exterior design, which will include chrome grille insert, body-colour exterior mirrors, chrome exhaust tip, chrome accent on the rear fascia and new 18-inch alloy wheels with polished face and painted pockets.

The interior of this trim will feature leather-trimmed front and rear seats available in Dark Slate Grey, premium contrasting stitched leather, power six-way driver seat with manual lumbar, heated front seats, Mediacentre with AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3/HDD radio with 6.5-inch touchscreen and 40 GB hard drive, 18-inch aluminum wheels, automatic air conditioning, TPM (Tyre Pressure Monitor) and Parkview rear backup camera.

Source: Jeep

September 2, 2013

Jaguar C-X17 Concept Teased Ahead Of Frankfurt Debut

Jaguar C-X17 Concept has been crated with the aim to introduce company’s new, highly-advanced, modular aluminium architecture. In addition, the vehicle is pure example of the many versatile ways of building vehicles using this architecture.

This of course highlights the innovative future of the Jaguar brand. C-X17 Concept will be presented to the public for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show. There, Jaguar will also showcase its newly introduced production models, which will include the recently launched ‘R’ performance models – Jaguar XJR and XFR-S, Jaguar XF Sportbrake and the F-TYPE.

At last, the brand disclosed that prior to the debut in Frankfurt, the C-X17 Concept will be officially revealed with a live pre-show reveal on 9th of September at Jaguar’s official web site and Facebook page.

Source: Jaguar

September 2, 2013

Citroen Cactus Concept Car Teased Ahead Of Frankfurt [VIDEO]

Citroen will definitely have a place at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. However, by far the French brand hasn’t announced anything about its participation in the Show except for its plans to reveal a new concept vehicle there. Hence, there has just been released the first teaser image of the Citroen Cactus Concept Car next to a video that carries the name “Touch me!”.

Thanks to the image above we can get a vague idea of what the nose of the concept would look like. In addition, there are also visible delicate LED upper head-light clusters and very stylish alloy wheels next to the black plastic which starts from the bottom of the bumper and goes around the wheel-arch.

On the other hand, thanks to the video, we assume that the vehicle will probably be equipped with special sort of new air bumpers who will deliver “soft touch” and absorb shocks. Citroen will reveal more detailed information about the Cactus Concept on 5th of September, when we will be answered the question whether this vehicle will be in the form of SUV or not.

httpv://youtu.be/Wsf0UodcW3c

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Citroen

August 30, 2013

Revised Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport To Debut At Frankfurt Motor Show

Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport has a top speed of 170 mph and generates 325 horsepower (239 kW) and in addition now comes in a refined version. The revisions were made on the design and the chassis.

The SuperSport model will be available in a Hatch or Sports Tourer version. Both models have received an updated front and rear, with “saber-tooth” detailing at the front and the tailpipe trim integrated into the rear valence.

In addition to this, vehicle’s adaptive all-wheel-drive chassis has also been enhanced. An innovative new feature here is car’s front HiPerStruts which prevent geometry changes during hard cornering.

Further modifications have been done on the ESP software for even more precise handling and control of understeer, as well as to the damper software as part of the SuperSport’s FlexRide adaptive damping system.

Going further into the details, the NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness) has been also upgraded in order to deliver better refinement for occupants, improving SuperSport’s characteristics.

The vehicle is equipped with six-speed manual transmission and includes all-wheel-drive. It covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds.

This Vauxhall’s drivetrain includes an electronically controlled 4×4 system, operating on Haldex principles and an electronic limited-slip differential. It adapts all the time in order to prevail the road conditions and varies torque distribution seamlessly between the front and rear axles, as well as between the rear wheels.

Other new highlight in this model is the new instrument panel and central console design, with included Bluetooth-operated internet connectivity, 8-inch touchscreen, 3D navigation and voice control.

Vauxhall Insignia VXR SuperSport has a starting price of £29 749 (US $46 114) and will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Source: Vauxhall

August 30, 2013

Toyota Will Premiere Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle In Frankfurt

Toyota FCV-R Concept - Front Angle At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show Toyota will premiere its new Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle Concept with the aim to offer one of the best solutions to the challenges of energy sources and emissions. In these terms the hydrogen is the ideal and ultra-clean fuel.

Another goal that the brand has achieved with this model is to offer a driving range and performance comparable to conventional petrol and diesel engines. The advantage here however is that there is no harmful tailpipe emissions.

In the vehicle has been utilized Hybrid Synergy Drive technology which is also used in the famous Prius and other full hybrid production models. At first the Toyota FCV-R Concept was unveiled at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. Now the brand continues to make progress towards its planned introduction of an affordable FCHV saloon model by 2015.

The FCV-R concept is 4,745mm long, 1,510mm high and 1,790mm wide. It achieves a maximum driving range of about 420 miles and doesn’t produce any emissions. The only by-product of the hydrogen fuel cell is water vapour. The twin fuel tanks and the fuel cell stack are positioned beneath the floor. This of course results in no impact on the cabin and load space.

Toyota FCV-R Concept

Toyota aims that its FCHVs will be in a mass-market production during the 2020s. In addition, this commercialization will be supported by the wider roll-out of fuel cell vehicle technology as well as the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.

The fuel cell which is going to be utilized in Toyota’s production FCHV achieves the world’s highest power output density at 3kW per litre. In addition, it also delivers improved range of the vehicle from about 205 miles to more than 350 miles. What is more, the fuel cell has a greater operating range, with the help of materials in its construction making cold start possible at temperatures around -30°C.

Toyota’s FCHV has currently a price around US $108 367, however the brand is planning to significantly reduce the cost and make it more affordable.

Source: Toyota

August 30, 2013

Toyota Launches Camry Atara R Special Edition

The Japanese brand Toyota has just launched a special-edition model called Toyota Camry Atara R. The new vehicle is based on Camry Altise and it will offer enhanced safety, performance, comfort and appearance.

Many of the included features make the car more attractive and such for example are the front sports bumper and grille, sports side skirts and a dual exhaust diffuser, which boosts car’s power by 2kW. In addition to this the Atara R also includes 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog-lamps and a special-edition badge.

Furthermore, the interior of this special-edition vehicle features premium three-spoke steering wheel with added audio controls, 6.1-inch screen display audio and reversing camera with fixed guidelines.

Toyota Camry Atara R special edition will be available in a choice of the following exterior colours: Diamond White, Silver Pearl, Graphite, Eclipse Black, Wildfire, Magnetic Bronze and Reflex Blue.

The safety of the car is also enhanced thanks to the seven airbags (including driver’s knee airbag), vehicle stability control and traction control. Other technologies included are the trip computer and eco indicator, six-speaker audio including auxiliary and USB input with iPod® connectivity.

Only 2500 examples of the Toyota Camry Atara R will be produced. The model’s starting price will begin at US $31 820.

Source: Toyota

August 30, 2013

2014 Kia Soul Goes On Sale

2014 Kia Soul Urban Crossover is ready to make its European debut at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. In addition, the new Soul is also ready to go on sale during the fourth quarter of the year.

The model will be offered in three unique trim levels: Base, Plus and Exclaim. Since this Kia was introduced back in 2009 to the automotive marked, it became one of the top-selling vehicles of the brand.

This year’s model is expected to continue this tradition and will provide to its customers more premium features and content and improved driving dynamics. 2014 Soul will offer stiffer, longer and wider chassis, which will result in mode room for the passengers and the cargo.

2014 Kia Soul Base will be equipped with privacy glass, Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) as standard, while as an option it will be available with 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control with steering-wheel-mounted controls, center console armrest and storage, rear center armrest with cup holders and remote keyless entry.

Furthermore, there is also being offered here a wide range of standard features such as a 1.6L I-4 DOHC gasoline direct injection (GDI), four wheel disc brakes, rack-ready roof with integrated mounting points, air conditioning, power door locks, power windows with driver-side one-touch auto-down, SiriusXMTM Satellite Radio, USB/auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth® wireless technology and Vehicle Stability Management (VSM).

2014 Kia Soul Plus, will add on the Base equipment the following: 17-inch alloy wheels, gloss black with chrome bezel front upper grille and outside mirrors with turn signal indicators. The Plus will also be available with several optional packages.

The first one is UVO eServices Package which comprises of a Rear-Camera Display and auto on/off headlights. The next one is the Audio Package which includes navigation with an 8-inch display, HD RadioTM, Infinity® Audio system with center speakers, subwoofer and external amplifier, speaker lights and automatic temperature control with cluster ionizer.

Third is the Primo Package that adds to the Kia panoramic sunroof with power shades, leather trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, push-button start with Smart Key and front fog lights. At last, the ECO Package features Idle Stop and Go System (ISG), low rolling resistance tires and 16-inch alloy wheels.

2014 Kia Soul Exclaim is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, body-colored front and rear bumper tusks, LED positioning lights, LED taillights with LED high-mounted stop light, power folding outside mirrors, UVO with eServices and a Rear-Camera Display.

This trim level will be offered with the optional Sun and Sand Package that provides navigation with an 8-inch display, Infinity Audio system with center speakers, subwoofer and external amplifier, speaker lights and automatic temperature control with cluster ionizer. On the other hand, the Whole Shabang Package adds leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, push-button start with Smart Key and LED positioning lights.

2014 Kia Soul will go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year with the Base trim having a starting price of US $14 700.

Source: Kia

August 29, 2013

Ford Introduces Bacon-Wrapped Fiesta

Ford has just introduced one interesting project – a Bacon-Wrapped Fiesta, in order to celebrate the International Bacon Day and the meat which has transformed from a food to a lifestyle. The first in the world bacon-wrapped 2014 Ford Fiesta will also be available in the dealerships around the United States.

To be more precise, the “Bacon Wrap” is in fact 10 giant strips of bacon rolled around the entire Fiesta. Benton, who is also known as the King of Bacon, has personally approved the design. In addition, there are also other options from the bacon-wrap Fiesta menu. For example, there are Bacon Racing Strips offered. These are two pieces of bacon that go on the car’s hood and resemble classic dual racing stripes.

Another option is the Side of Bacon, which is two individual strips of bacon that wrap over rear wheel, and this will become probably popular among those on a diet. The car was especially designed for those having a hunger for self-expression.

What is more, the tasty Fiesta will offer its customers an EPA-estimated fuel efficiency rating of up to 41 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the Fiesta interior will include worthy technologies and features.

Source: Ford

August 29, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova