Lidia Todorova – Page 221 – Automobiles Review

Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition

Kahn Range Rover Vogue 3.0 TDV6 Signature Edition is definitely a reminder of what luxury means. And of course we can not expect anything else from the designers at A. Kahn Design. They again have proven their craftsmanship and attention to the detail.

The tuned Range Rover has suitably presidential in appearance thanks to its exterior santorini Black Metallic paint finish. What is more, this look is additionally enhanced by the unique brake calipers in liquid gold.

More highlights to mention with regard to the exterior are the fender accents in satin black, front and rear bumper accents in satin black and door accents in satin black. But this is not everything! This athletic vehicle rides on 9.5×22 RS600 wheels, which further add to the luxurious stance of the car.

Additionally, the panoramic glass sunroof allows the driver to bask in the rays of the sun. He or she will also enjoy the cabin which has been wrapped in perforated leather interior – in this case it is again in black in order to match the exquisite exterior.

Source: A.Kahn Design

August 26, 2013

2014 Lexus GX 460 Gets Updated

2014 Lexus GX 460 Luxury Utility Vehicle (LUV) has been redesigned and now is going to be offered in two grades which are going to include even more equipment. What is more, the new updated design of the model features a new interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille with standard LED headlamps and daytime running lights. As an option there are also LED fog lamps available.

In terms of interior, the luxurious and spacious GX has received a new touch-screen display audio with an eight-inch screen, backup monitor, HD Radio™, Bluetooth® audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio.

The comfort of the cabin is additionally enhanced via the new linear espresso wood/abyss black trim, while the mahogany wood trim will be available only for the Premium Package and Luxury model. In addition, the 2014 GX 460 also offers an available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

To go further into details, the Premium Package of the new Lexus model will include Navigation system with backup monitor, perforated leather trimmed interior, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, Intuitive Parking Assist and Three Zone Climate control.

On the other hand the 2014 GX Luxury is equipped with Adaptable Air Suspension, Navigation, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Intuitive Parking Assist, and 18-inch split six-spoke wheels with liquid graphite finish.

Under the hood of the vehicle hides a 4.6-liter V8 engine which is matched to a six-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). It generates an output of 301 horsepower (221 KW) at 5,500 rpm. The GX 460 has an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

In terms of safety, the GX has standard 10 airbags and on the Luxury model available Advanced Pre Collision with Driver Monitor. Furthermore, the standard full-time four-wheel drive utilizes an electronically controlled transfer case and a TORSEN® torque-sensing limited slip center differential which can be electronically locked. This makes possible the low range for off-road driving.

2014 Lexus GX 460 will be available in dealerships in September and it will have a starting price of US $49,085.

Source: Lexus

August 26, 2013

Pricing Announced For 2014 Subaru BRZ

Subaru has announced the price tag for the 2014 BRZ. The BRZ lineup still puts the main focus on a contemporary sports car design, which includes low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering.

In addition, the brand also created the rear-wheel drive BRZ using an all-new naturally aspirated 200 horsepower (147 kW) horizontally opposed (BOXER) engine design. Although it is extremely sporty, the vehicle also has the capacity to deliver enough comfort and practicality. For instance, it delivers an estimated 34 mpg highway fuel economy when the car is equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission.

Other ratings are concerning the fuel economy are of 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, and 25 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

The very low-slung coupe body allows a roof height of just 50.6 inches, combined with a swept-back roofline, bulging front fenders, short overhangs and pronounced rear haunches. This undoubtedly gives the new BRZ an athletic stance.

Vehicle’s high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, hexagonal lower grille and six-star ornament are other exterior highlights that contribute to the sporty stance of the car. The BRZ Limited edition model adds a body-color trunk spoiler, standard fog light and Alcantara trimmed interior and Keyless Access.

The car will be offered in Premium or Limited trim levels, which will performance features like sport-tuned suspension with front strut brace and TORSEN limited-slip differential. To be more precise, the BRZ Limited will deliver to its driver better comfort and amenities.

The exterior of the Limited model is characterized by fog lights and a body-color trunk spoiler. The interior on the other hand includes seat upholstered with Alcantara inserts and leather bolsters. Aha® infotainment smartphone integration included with the standard navigation system is what is new in the 2014 MY Subaru.

The BRZ Limited has a dual-zone automatic climate control as a standard, while the Premium model is equipped with manual HVAC system. The latter also includes a standard All-Weather Package with dual-mode heated front seats and heated side mirrors. In the Limited, there are also dual visor vanity mirrors which are illuminated, and front door courtesy lights illuminate when the doors are opened.

2014 Subaru BRZ
Model/Trim	Transmission	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
BRZ Premium	6MT	$25,595	$26,390
BRZ Limited	6MT	$27,595	$28,390
BRZ Limited	6AT	$28,695	$29,490

Source: Subaru

August 26, 2013

Video Teaser Of Ferrari 458 Speciale Released

Ferrari 458 Speciale was revealed couple of days ago showing the latest product in Ferrari’s portfolio. The new model is based on the exceptional 458 Italia but offers great powertrain characteristics, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics benefits. Now the brand is revealing a first video teaser of the new model which you can view below.

Many sophisticated and innovative solutions have been applied in this special edition model featuring advanced active aerodynamics, which are expected to become standard in all new Ferraris in the future.

The highlight in this model is definitely the aerodynamics, which guided the work of the Ferrari Styling Centre. I order to make them better than ever, the brand joined forces with Pininfarina, and hence have delivered such forms of the car which ensure more performance-oriented driving than ever.

In fact, the most notable features in these terms are the front and rear movable aerodynamics. They balance the downforce and cut the drag, thus making 458 Speciale the most aerodynamically efficient range production car in brand’s history.

Another highlight which is one of the most innovative content of this Ferrari model is the Side Slip angle Control system (SSC). The latter performs instant-to-instant analysis of the car’s side slip, comparing it with the target value and then maximizing the torque management and torque distribution between the two wheels.

Moreover, what also improve the performance of the car are the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres which were specifically created for this model. Ferrari 458 Speciale will make a public world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.

httpv://youtu.be/eUEcWmIw4SE

Technical Specification Summary:

Engine
- Type: V8 – 90°
- Total displacement: 4495 cm3
- Max. power output: 605 cv at 9000 rpm
- Max. torque: 540 Nm at 6000 rpm
Weight
- Dry weight: 1290 kg
- Weight/power ratio: 2.13 kg/cv
Performance
- 0-100 km/h: 3.0”
- 0 – 200 km/h: 9.1”
- Fiorano lap time: 1’23”5
Emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
- CO2 emissions (with HELE System): 275 gr/km

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ferrari

August 23, 2013

European Debut For 2014 Kia Soul Urban Crossover

2014 Kia Soul Urban Crossover is going to make its European debut at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show on 10th of September. Then the vehicle will go on sale across the Old Continent in the beginning of next year.

The car’s design was inspired by 2012 Kia Track’ster concept, however the new 2014 Soul has a thoroughly fresh and enchanting appearance with recognizably “Soul” attitude. It retains the outgoing model’s upright stance, squared shoulders, wraparound greenhouse, high-mounted tail lights and confidence-inspiring SUV ride height.

In addition, the new model also includes new interior which is made via higher quality materials and now has more driver-focused design. The car will be also offered with three different roof colours – black, white and red, and eleven exterior paint finishes.

The new Kia model will also be equipped with optional SUV Styling Pack, which includes piano black bumper trim, side skirts, wheel arches and a black painted roof. The biggest highlight here however which is also the biggest technical change, is the adoption of an all-new platform. The latter is based on the one of the latest Kia cee’d.

As a result, the Soul has enhanced ride and handling as well as more mature and refined on-road behavior. In addition, the car also comes with upgraded suspension, 29 per cent stiffer bodyshell and comprehensive soundproofing. The interior noise levels are also minimized.

2014 Kia Soul also has larger dimensions with a longer wheelbase and wider track. This of course effects in bigger cabin space and cargo capacity as well as more leg, head and shoulder room for the passengers.

The model will be fitted with either the 1.6-litre GDi petrol engine or the CRDi diesel one. They will be matched to a as six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Despite the fact that both engines are carried over from the outgoing model, they have been improved in terms of efficiency and emit less CO2.

A range of new premium features will be also available. Some of them are front LED daytime running lights and rear LED ‘halo’ lights, xenon headlights, keyless entry and push-button engine start, automatic climate control, cruise control, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, panoramic glass sunroof and heated and electrically folding exterior mirrors.

Source: Kia

August 23, 2013

TEASER: 2014 Nissan Rogue CUV

2014 Nissan Rogue CUV 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show is just around the corner, beginning at 10th of September. Several brands have already released teasers of their upcoming vehicles ahead of the event and it is now time for Nissan to do so as well.

Therefore now the Japanese company is disclosing a glimpse of the bold design of the all-new 2014 Nissan Rogue, which will push the envelope of CUV design. The teaser image shows how the headlights and the front fender of the new model will look like.

Not much information however has been unveiled around the new car and we are expecting it ahead of its official premiere in Frankfurt. Although the engine it will be available with isn’t confirmed yet, we are expecting to see the 2.5-liter four-cylinder under its hood.

The unit generates 182 hp (134 kW) and 244 Nm (180 lb-ft) of torque and it will be probably coupled with a continuously variable transmission. Of course, an all-wheel-drive system is also at question.

The Rogue model has been present on the automotive scene since 2007 and it is now ready to show its new form and hence to enchant even more people.

Source: Nissan

August 23, 2013

Vorsteiner McLaren MP4-VX Revealed [VIDEO]

The latest tuning project by Vorsteiner is on the exceptional McLaren MP4. It has been teased in the beginning of June and it now takes full manifestation. In order to stay true to the iconic design of McLaren, the tuners kept as many of the MP4 body lines.

Nevertheless, they enhanced the original design and gave the car more edgy and aggressive appearance. Furthermore, they also paid attention to vehicle’s everyday driveability and functionality of each body part, thus optimizing the ground clearance of this supersports car while at the same time enhancing the overall aerodynamics and appearance.

In addition Vorsteiner McLaren MP4-VX is also equipped with one-piece aluminum forged wheel, which were specifically engineered for the weight of the car. This helped in terms of weight savings because they could be maximized during the CNC milling process without any compromises in safety.

To be more precise, the vehicle is fitted with wheels in size of 20x9J and 21x12J for the front and the rear respectively, and matched with tires in dimensions 245/25/20 and 325/30/21.

Vorsteiner’s MP4-VX program is comprised of Carbon Fiber Front Bumper with dual air duct system and side ventilation louvers, Carbon Fiber Add-On Front Spoiler, Carbon Fiber Rear Bumper with dual ventilation louvers and central vent opening, Carbon Fiber Rear Diffuser with integrated Dual Diffuser Tunnels, Four Piece Carbon Fiber Side Skirt blade with floating front fin element.

To begin with the front of the car, one can see that it has a completely new nose made entirely of dry carbon fiber pre-preg autoclave technology. The front end is made of a full replacement bumper cover with redesigned air ducting system, side vent elements and a separate front spoiler. They serve in terms of enhancing the downforce.

However, the main visual highlights in this tuning are the replaced carbon fiber rear bumper cover and rear diffuser element. The optical carbon fiber rear bumper also includes two ventilation louvers on the side and one in the center, thus helping the heat dissipation from the engine and exhaust.

What is more, the new carbon and kevlar reinforced composite rear diffuser also has race inspired tunnels which additionally improve the airflow and keep the rear end planted against the road surface.

At last, Vorsteiner McLaren MP4-VX has received improved airflow dynamics with four-piece carbon fiber side blade elements. This results in the lower and more aggressive stance of the vehicle, while at the same time it also improves the downforce at high speeds.

httpv://youtu.be/M4MlU4k8xnI

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vorsteiner

August 23, 2013

VUHL 05 Enters Production

The exclusive new model VUHL 05 was officially revealed in the beginning of July. Then it made a highly successful public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. At the event were shown a complete car and separate chassis, and then the capabilities of the car were demonstrated on the hill by Esteban Gutierrez.

The success it gained there now leads to the logical consequence of the start of production of the innovative VUHL 05 in November this year. The first cars are planned to enter customers’ hands during the spring of next year.

Having a sports car spirit, the VUHL 05 generates its power from a 2-litre version of Ford’s award-winning DOHC turbocharged EcoBoost engine. The output of the unit is estimated at 285 hp (210 kW) and it can produce 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. Therefore it is now wonder that the car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 245 km/h.

The company EXTE, which has created the vehicle, collaborated for this project with Magna Steyr, Multimatic and Ford. The VŪHL 05 is made thanks to funding by the Mexican Government as well as private enterprise.

The next public appearance of the silver and black prototype is going to be at Salon Privé in London, which will take place between 4th and 6th of September.

Source: VUHL

August 22, 2013

Ford Police Interceptor Utility Vehicle Now With More Horsepower

Ford has revealed its new vehicle created especially for the police agencies. Soon they will be able to order a Ford Police Interceptor utility vehicle which will give them more power than ever: 365 horsepower (268 kW), thanks to the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine the machine is equipped with.

The engine also generates 474 Nm (350 lb.-ft.) of torque and we have seen it already in the Police Interceptor sedan and Ford F-150 trucks. What is more, the new Police Interceptor utility vehicle is designed to meet the demand of increased equipment, pursuit-capable performance and handling.

The 3.5-liter EcoBoost will offer best-in-class performance and excellent fuel economy. What this means is that the enforcement agencies will be ensured to have great levels of capability with no compromise.

Ford’s Police Interceptor engine strategy provides a V6 lineup that outperforms the known V8 engines. The Police Interceptor sedan is offered with a choice of three powertrain options: a 3.5-liter V6 with front-wheel drive, 3.7-liter V6 with all-wheel drive and the powerhouse 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine with all-wheel drive. These three units allow the police to choose the powerplant that best meets their patrol requirements.

Source: Ford

August 22, 2013

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid To Debut In Frankfurt

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is the third hybrid model of the new S-Class. It comes to new standards in terms of efficiency, drive-system and climate comfort. The new Mercedes-Benz hybrid vehicle emits only 69 g/km of CO2 and returns 94.2 mpg.

In fact, the new S-Calss can cover 100 kilometres with just three litres of fuel. It is equipped with 80-kW electric drive with externally rechargeable battery which contributes towards emission-free driving for about 18 miles. The electric motor is coupled 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged engine.

Some additional features included in the new model are the second-generation recuperative braking system and the anticipatory Intelligent HYBRID energy management system. What is more, the high-voltage lithium-ion battery of the car offers the option of being recharged from an external source with a charging socket located on the right side of the rear bumper.

Four hybrid operating modes can be selected at the push of a button, these are HYBRID, E-MODE (electric power only), E-SAVE (fully charged battery is reserved to be able to drive on electric power alone later), CHARGE (battery is charged while driving).

However, the most important highlight of the S 500 Plug-In Hybrid is its power output of 333 hp (245 kW) of the combustion engine plus 109 hp (80 kW) electric motor and torque of 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of the combustion engine plus 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of the electric motor.

These figures make it possible for the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h for only 5.5 seconds. The top speed here is 155 mph.

The second-generation S-Class hybrids include an anticipatory energy management system which serves in terms of enhancing the energy efficiency. The operating strategy of the hybrid drive system accounts for the current driving condition and driver input. Additionally, it also adjusts to the likely route for the next five miles.

Moreover, the new S-Class is the first to use a recuperative braking system (RBS) of the second generation. It basically ensures an unnoticeable overlapping of the conventional mechanical brakes and the electric braking performance of the electric motor in alternator mode.

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Plug-In Hybrid will make its official debut in Frankfurt next month, while the market launch of the car will in 2014.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 22, 2013

Land Rover Launches First Hybrid Range Rover Models

Land Rover has just presented its first-ever hybrid models: Range Rover Hybrid and Range Rover Sport Hybrid. With them, the brand aims to deliver better fuel economy, reduced CO2 emissions, but also to keep the emblematic for the Range Rover capability and performance.

The two all-aluminium models are based on Land Rover’s Premium Lightweight Architecture. In addition, they are also equipped with an identical powertrain, thanks to which they will become world’s first premium diesel SUV hybrids.

2014 Range Rover Hybrid has a powertrain which includes three driver-selectable modes and combines Land Rover’s popular 3-litre SDV6 diesel engine with a 35 kW electric motor. The car is equipped with 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. Furthermore, the hybrid system, which also features lithium ion battery pack, inverter and electric motor weighs less than 120kg.

In fact, the electric motor produces 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) torque and is active when the vehicle is in EV Mode. What is more, it is also used as a generator, harvesting kinetic energy through regenerative braking. This means that it charges the battery when the vehicle is slowing.

When the driver selects the EV mode, the Range Rover Hybrid can travel at speeds of up to 30 mph (48km/h) for a range of up to one mile (1.6 km). Afterwards, the diesel engine restarts. Both the diesel engine and electric motor has a combined output of 340 hp (250 kW) at 4,000 rpm and generate 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500-3,000rpm.

Range Rover Sport Hybrid and Sport Hybrid accelerate to 62mph (100km/h) in under seven seconds on their way to a top speed of 135mph (218km/h). The CO2 emissions are estimated at 169g/km, equivalent to 44.1mpg on the combined cycle.

The design of the new models is created according to the new hybrid technology included in them. For instance, the liquid cooled battery pack is mounted beneath the floor of the vehicle in a protective boron-steel cradle. The vehicle however, retains its five-seat capacity and luggage space as well as the full-size spare wheel. Both hybrid Range Rover models also include Land Rover’s four-wheel drive system that features Terrain Response 2.

Technical Specifications

	Range Rover Hybrid	Range Rover Sport Hybrid
Engine type	3.0 SDV6 HEV	3.0 SDV6 HEV
Power PS/rpm	340PS@4000	340PS@4000
Torque Nm/rpm	700@1500-3000	700@1500-3000
0-62mph / 0-100km/h secs	6.9	6.7
Top speed mph (km/h)	135 (218)	140 (225)
CO2 Combined g/km	169	169
Combined consumption mpg (L/100km)	44.1 (6.4)	44.1 (6.4)
Weight From… kg	2394	2372

Source: Land Rover

August 22, 2013

2014 Lexus IS Sport deviantART To Be Displayed At SEMA

2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan was revealed to the world at this year’s North American International Auto Show. In November the model will make a big entrance at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where it will catch the attention thanks to its new aggressive exterior styling visible through the new spindle grille, wider stance and sporty rocker panels.

In order to make the IS Spsort stand out even more, Lexus joined forces with DeviantART to find creative personas who have their own vision of the exterior presence of the car. For this reason, they have challenged the design community to show their interpretations of the 2014 IS with custom exterior treatments and modifications.

Then, the best IS Sport Sedan concept will be modified by VIP Auto Salon in 10 weeks and will be also displayed at SEMA. There has been more than 600 submissions, and a jury of four judges narrowed them down to 25. The selected top 25 were expressing the true essence of the 2014 Lexus IS Sport Sedan and were original as well as had executable design.

Today, Lexus and DeviantART announced the first, second and third place winners. The first place was given to Rob Evans from Seattle, who will be certainly proud to see his rendering taking a real form at the SEMA show. The second place winner was Lucia Lee of Pasadena, while Guanghao Huang from Southfield, took the third place.

Source: Lexus

August 21, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova

Technical Specifications