Lidia Todorova – Page 223 – Automobiles Review

Honda NSX Concept-GT To Enter The 2014 SUPER GT Series

Another brand has announced a new vehicle prepared to compete at the 2014 SUPER GT and this time is Honda. It has just unveiled that the Honda NSX Concept-GT will be its racing machine.

In addition, the Japanese brand has also revealed a dozen of images of the racer. The NSX Concept-GT is a dedicated racing vehicle which of course is based on the NSX Concept. The latter is a super sports model which made its official appearance in 2012 at North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The racing vehicle is built in accordance with the 2014 regulations on GT500 vehicles prescribed by the Japan Automobile Federation. It is equipped with a mid-mounted 2.0 l inline direct-injection 4-cylinder turbo engine which is combined with a racing hybrid system.

Acura NSX Concept was shown at the Mid-Ohio Indy 200 on 4th of August. The model is going to make a special appearance at the 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on 18th of August.

Source: Honda

August 16, 2013

BMW Concept M4 Revealed [VIDEO]

BMW Concept M4 Coupe has been finally revealed at the iconic Pebble Beach. The car offers the first outlook on a high-performance sports car of tomorrow.

The model combines motor racing characteristics and great stability and dependability. The design of the new concept features an exclusive exterior paint finish “Aurum Dust” which was especially developed for this model.

In fact, it continues BMW M’s design language which exudes the strong and sporty character of the car mixed with emotional dynamics. Not to mention the perfect agility of this model and its superior performance.

The athletic appearance of the model is emphasized via the large air inlets in the dynamic front, a swift design language in the side and the low rear. In addition, carbon fiber reinforced plastic elements were used for the front splitter, the roof, or the rear diffuser. This of course results in optimized weight.

The front end of the car immediately charms with its precise contours and distinctive visual depth shape. BMW Concept M4 Coupe retains the classic appearance for the brand with its double kidney and a modern interpretation of the twin round headlamps featuring LED technology.

Furthermore, the dynamism of the car is additionally emphasized by the black kidney grille bars imitate the characteristic M double spoke design of the BMW M wheels, the M4 emblem on the kidney grille adding an exclusive accent to the front end.

The front apron and the carbon fibre front splitter immediately catch the attention. On the other hand three large air intakes supply the high performance power unit with sufficient cooling air. In addition, the vertical air vents located in the outer section of the side air intakes now stands under the name Air Curtain. Together with the Air Breather, they deliver aerodynamic closure of the wheel arches, enhanced air flow and fuel efficiency.

httpv://youtu.be/d0q1qUXpOrI

The side view of the vehicle retains the expressive dynamism. BMW Concept M4 Coupe has a long bonnet, long wheelbase, set-back greenhouse and a short front overhang. Moreover, the flowing roofline emphasizes additionally this BMW’s sporty character.

It flows into the muscular rear end, which in turn adopts the contour of the roof. A rear spoiler lip is integrated into the trunk lid for maximum downforce. Another interesting detail on vehicle’s side panels is the redesigned M gill.

The M gills include the Air Breather. Exclusive bicoloured 20” M light alloys with the typical M double spoke design complete the design credentials of the car. The five filigree double-spokes rims with polished outer surfaces reveal M Carbon ceramic brakes.

At last, the rear end of the car is muscular and gives visual indication of power. The entire tail contributes for the broad appearance of the car. In addition, the flat taillights which are to be found in the wide track and the powerfully flared wheel arches highlight BMW’s stable appearance.

The front apron in the tail section comprises of faceted surfaces. On the other hand, the twin tailpipes made of carbon fiber are a characteristic M feature on the rear end. A carbon fibre rear diffuser is what eventually rounds out the aerodynamics package.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: BMW

August 16, 2013

Lexus New Vehicle To Compete in Japanese Super GT500 Series

Lexus Racing has just announced that they are going to compete in the next season’s Japanese super GT500 Series with a brand new model. The race car I called Lexus GT LF-CC Prototype and it is going to be based on the Lexus LF-CC.

The new vehicle is going to replace the current race car, the Lexus SC 430, which is being used in the Super GT races.

Lexus LF-CC is a two-door coupe concept which made its first official appearance at the 2012 Paris Motor Show in September. It includes athletic and aggressive exterior with an emphasis on aerodynamics and cooling performance.

LF-CC is equipped the highly efficient 2.5 litre full hybrid powertrain with D4-S injection technology. It delivers a combination of the engaging performance appropriate to a sporting D-segment coupe and low CO2 emissions, targeted below 100 g/km.

Source: Lexus

August 16, 2013

Ram Teases Rumble Bee Concept

Dodge Ram Rumble Bee was a truck inspired by the iconic back in the days Dodge Super Bee muscle cars. It was characterized by its special bumble bee stripe. The model was offered in limited edition run in the years of 2004 and 2005.

Back then, the Ram Rumble Bee was being only available in a regular SLT trim with either two or four-wheel drive. The car was powered by a 5.7 liter Hemi V8 which was capable of generating 345 hp (254 kW) and 508 Nm (375 lb•ft) of torque. All in all 8700 examples of this model were built and sold.

Now, Ram Truck is announcing fantastic news about the fans of the Rumble Bee. The brand is going to reveal a new concept version of the model at 13 mile and Woodward during the 2013 Woodward Dream Cruise. This will happen on 17th of August.

Although Ram Brand did not provide any other information about the vehicle, judging from the photos and having in mind the previous models, we can assume that the new concept will be most likely yellow and will run of big black five-spoke wheels.

Pictures Source: Dodge

August 15, 2013

Audi Celebrates Half Million TT Cars With Special Edition TTS Competition Model

Half Million Audi TT models have been built so far. In order to celebrate this, Audi is releasing an exclusive special edition model – the Audi TTS Competition which is in Coupé and Roadster form.

The TTS Competition will be capable of generating 272 horsepower (200 kW) and will begin rolling off the assembly line in October. Only 500 example of the model will be produced. The new model will be available in special paint finishes Imola yellow or Nimbus gray.

In addition, a special highlight of the exterior is the fixed rear wing with bars in a matt aluminum-look finish. The Roadster’s top is available in either Black or Gray. The vehicle runs on 19-inch wheels which include a five-arm “Rotor” design and are matched with 225/35 tires.

The interior of the TTS Competition includes Impulse leather package in steel gray. It also utilizes the characteristic leather bands as decorative elements. Their cut edges are dyed Imola yellow, and the same color is used for the contrasting stitching. To make the model even more special, Aluminum badges on the door trims are embossed with “1 of 500” number.

Furthermore, a leather multifunction steering wheel and the rear parking system, round out the equipment. The other features included in this special edition Audi are those found in the TTS.

As already mentioned, the car is capable of producing 200 kW (272 hp). It also generates 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, thanks to its 2.0 TFSI engine, which underscores the dynamic character of the Audi TTS competition.

This unit is matched with a six-speed S tronic transmission. The vehicle in its Coupe form can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in only 5.3 seconds. The average fuel consumption for the Coupé is 7.7 liters per 100 kilometers (30.55 US mpg).

On the other hand, the Audi TTS Competition Roadster equipped with the six-speed S tronic sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds. The Roadster consumes 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (29.77 US mpg). What is more, the quattro permanent all-while drive is also to be found here. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

Source: Audi

August 15, 2013

Audi A8 To Be Equipped With New Turn Signal Light

Audi has just released the information that the new 2014 A8 model is going to be equipped with brand new turn signal light. The latter will comprise of lighting elements that illuminate in a defined sequence. The aim behind this is to make it easier for others to perceive the driver’s turning intentions.

The new turn signal lights will show the turning direction in an innovative way. In fact, the lights provide a visual signal, which allows a clearer and quicker perception, and even in long distances or in poor visibility.

To be more precise, each headlight contains 18 light-emitting diodes. They in turn are arranged in a strip that is subdivided into seven blocks. On the other hand, each tail light comprises of 24 LEDs in eight segments, which are used to dynamically indicate the turning direction.

How they work: during flashing, the blocks are sequentially activated at 20 millisecond intervals. The direction is from the inside to the outside and in the desired turning direction. All segments turn bright after 150 milliseconds. After another 250 milliseconds they illuminate with full intensity. Then, the turn signals go dark ahead of repeating the lighting sequence again.

Audi Matrix LED headlights are definitely a cutting-edge innovation. In each headlight, 25 light-emitting diodes develop a highly variable high-beam light. Audi A8 is equipped with an on-board camera as well. When it detects other vehicles ahead, the Audi Matrix LED headlights mask the relevant sections of the high-beam by dimming or shutting off individual diodes.

They also include navigation-based cornering lights which work in conjunction with the night vision assistant. The latter is a marker light which signals when pedestrians are in the vicinity in the dark. It also alerts the pedestrians.

The upgraded version of the Audi A8 with the new turn signals will be showcased at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Source: Audi

August 15, 2013

2014 Dodge Durango Goes On Sale

2014 Dodge Durango is the ultimate “No Compromise SUV” and is now ready to go on sale. Each Durango model is equipped with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, projector headlamps and projector fog lamps, floating split crosshair grille, signature LED racetrack taillights, bright chrome or body-color accents.

In addition, the athletic SUV comes with 18-inch or 20-inch aluminum wheels, Bluetooth, 5-inch or 8.4-inch touch screen, rotary shifter with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, 7-inch customizable gauge cluster, Keyless Enter ’n Go with push-button start, seven airbags, seven passenger seating and much more.

Like no other vehicle in its segment, this Dodge model can offer not only great comfort, but also best-in-class power. It generates up to 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 528 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. It is also necessary to mention its best-in-class towing capacity of up to 7,400 lbs. and best-in-class driving range of 600 miles on a tank of fuel.

2014 Dodge Durango is now being offered in five trim levels: SXT, Rallye, Limited, R/T and Citadel. First, the Durango SXT and Limited models are equipped with the award-winning Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6 engine. It is capable of delivering 290 horsepower (213 kW) and 352 Nm (260 lb.-ft.) of torque.

The Rallye and Citadel models on the other hand feature standard dual exhaust, thanks to which the 3.6-liter unit generates an impressive 295 hp (217 kW). The engine is matched with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission equipped with a rotary shifter and standard paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Its towing capacity reaches up to 6,200 pounds.

SXT will offer to customers a wide range of equipment, including bright accents on the exterior and premium interior. As a standard here is featured the following: class-exclusive signature 192 LED racetrack tail lamps, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, electronic stability program (ESP), trailer-sway control, automatic projector-beam headlights, projector fog lamps, deep-tint sunscreen glass, power body-color mirrors, speed-sensitive, variable intermittent wipers, chrome grille surround and split crosshairs with black “Split-Hex” texture and 18-inch Tech-Silver aluminum wheels.

The interior of the 2014 Durango SXT includes three rows of seats with 60/40 split fold and tumble second row, 50/50 split, folding third row, premium cloth seats, fold-flat front passenger seat, new Dodge three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters, 7-inch reconfigurable TFT gauge cluster, 5-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Uconnect AM/FM/MP3, six speakers, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, three 12-volt power outlets, tri-zone automatic temperature control, rear-seat air conditioning, air filtering, and much more.

In terms of safety, this trim level is equipped with seven standard airbags, active front headrests, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, trailer-sway control and much more. The starting price of the model is estimated at US $29,795.

Next, the Rallye builds on the SXT and adds the Durango R/T’s sporty exterior design. It also adds 5 more horsepower to the power output. In addition, there are also to mention dual-exhaust, 20-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels, body-color grille with black “Per-Form” texture, black headlamp bezels, body-color front and rear lower fascias, wheel flares and sill moldings.

Going on the inside of the car, one can find a premium black cloth seats and black headliner, power driver seat, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and leather-wrapped steering wheel. There are also being offered some optional features such as second row captain’s chairs with an available center console, 8.4-inch touch screen with downloadable apps, heated seats and heated steering wheel and much more. The starting price here is US $32,990.

The Limited Durango is a brand new model for 2014 MY and it also builds on the SXT. However, it adds 18-inch polished aluminum wheels with Mineral Gray pockets, LED daytime running lamps, signal repeater mirrors, the new 8.4-inch Uconnect Access Via Mobile touchscreen with SiriusXM Radio with one-year free subscription, Capri leather seating, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated steering wheel, heated first- and second-row seats.

What is also standard for this Limited trim are the 12-way power driver seat with memory and power four-way lumbar adjustment, 10-way power front passenger seat, including power four-way lumbar adjustment, remote start, ParkSense rear park assist, ParkView rear backup camera, tire-pressure monitoring system, vehicle security alarm, power folding auto-dimming mirrors with memory, HomeLink universal transceiver, 115-volt AC, 150-watt power outlet and Limited badge.

More importantly, the vehicle can be equipped with an optional engine: the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. It generates 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 529 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) of torque. The unit is mated to the standard eight-speed transmission with paddle shifters. Other options here include 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, power sunroof, power rear liftgate, premium 3D navigation and premium Alpine audio system. 2014 Dodge Durango Limited has an initial price tag of US $35,995.

The R/T specification is the high-performance version of the all-new Durango. It comes as a standard equipped with body-color hot-rod looks, HEMI® power, world-class handling and true R/T heritage. Also standard here is theThe 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine.

What is also important to mention for this trim level is that it features a unique sport-tuned suspension, unique performance tuned exhaust, 20-inch performance tires with 20-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels, and a 20 mm lower ride height.

On the other hand, the interior comes as a standard with leather interior with red accent stitching, heated first- and second-row seats, 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Screen and heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. Available option here are the premium Nappa Leather seats. In addition, this Durango R/T also includes as a standard 506-watt premium audio system with nine speakers and a subwoofer, power liftgate and HID headlamps.

In fact, the R/T builds on the content of the Limited. It adds the following: dual exhaust, body-color grille with black “Per-Form” texture, black HID headlamp bezels with LED daytime running lamps, body-color front and rear lower fascias, wheel flares and sill moldings. The starting price of the R/T specifications is US $38,995.

At last, the Citadel trim level offers the ultimate luxury, premium content and performance capabilities. It builds on the Durango Limited, and adds rich, perforated Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available in Black, Black/Light Frost or Black/Tan.

Other standard features here are: new Uconnect Access 8.4-inch touchscreen with voice command navigation and live streaming internet radio, remote start, unique 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and a unique grille with chrome surround and chrome “Cross-Hex” texture, power sunroof, automatic high-beam headlamps, rain-sensitive front wipers, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and power liftgate. The top of the range 2014 Dodge Durango Citadel has a starting price of US $40,995.

All trim levels of the new 2014 Dodge Durango will be available at dealerships at the end of the third quarter of this year.

Source: Dodge

August 15, 2013

2013 Novitec Rosso Ferrari F12 Berlinetta Generates 774 Horsepower

2013 Novitec Rosso Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is ready to be unveiled with its new athletic design. This Ferrari also comes to show a combination of outstanding aerodynamic efficiency, high-tech forged wheels and a power increase up to 569 kW / 774 hp. Of course, all the enhancement in terms of power means also a top speed in excess of 345 km/h.

The leading tuning experts at Novitec Rosso has created this tuning program for the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta in order to give it not only more power and sporty spirit, but also to make its apperance even more athletic. All bodywork components received their finishing touches in the wind tunnel and therefore this maximizes car’s handling stability.

Furthermore, in order to additionally minimize the negative lift on the front axle, the tuners included a three-piece aerodynamics upgrade that comprises of a front spoiler lip with attached air ducts and a central front blade.

The result is and incresed downforce in the front at high speeds. In addition, the spoilers which are combined with the new surrounds for the brake air scoops, the hood insert and the front grille give the Ferrari even more striking nose.

Next, what is also added are new rocker panels. They serve in terms to calm the airstream between the front and rear wheel arches. Additionally, they also enhance the visual muscle to the sports car’s appearance. The carbon-fiber covers for the exterior mirrors and the black side markers stylishly round out the view from the side.

The rear is also transformed. For example, a rear separation edge delivers optimal aerodynamic balance. The rear diffuser attaches to the production rear fascia and can be additionally improved with optional diffuser fins and a fascia cover made from clear-coated carbon fibers. Carbon-fiber surrounds for the rear fog lamps and the tail lights emphasize the spirit of the supersports car.

What also gives an emblematic look to this model is the new wheels that were custom-developed for this car. In order to additionally highlight the wedge shape of the F12ing company has developed two tire/wheel combinations with staggered wheels, 21-inch wheels on the front axle and 22-inch rims in back.

Novitec Rosso NF4 high-tech forged wheels are ightweight and its desig includes five delicate double spokes. They are matched with Pirelli high-performance tires in size 255/30 ZR 2 for the front and 335/25 ZR 22 for the rear.

Morover, the new sports springs are responsible for lowering the ride height of the Ferrari by up to 40 millimeters. The end effect us lowered center of gravity and enhanced handling agility. What is more a hydraulic lift system for the front axle can raise the front of the car with a push of a button. The car also reverts to its normal ride height automatically upon reaching a speed of 80 km/h.

More importanlty, the specialist at the tuning brand has also given this F12 Berlinetta a powerful performance kit. After the power therapy the 6.3-liter V12 engine of the vehicle generates an additional 25 kW / 34 hp. The extra power is due to an upgrade to the engine management system with newly calibrated mapping for injection and ignition. Novitec Rosso’s high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts was also isntalled.

The tuning of the engine not only offers a higher maximum power output of 569 kW / 774 hp at 8,500 rpm but also the peak torque was enhanced up to 716 Nm / 526 lb-ft at 6,300 rpm. As mentioned there is also an increse in the Vmax which now is more than 345 km/h.

What is left is to mention that the interior of the car was also transformed via an extensive use of carbon-fiber. The material is used for example in the shift paddles, while the seats were crafted from leather and Alcantara.

Source: Novitec Rosso

August 14, 2013

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva To Be Officially Unveiled At Concorso Italiano

Fiat has just announced that its new limited edition model 2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva is going to make an official debut at Concorso Italiano. The event will take place on 16th of August at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch in Monterey, California.

In Italian the word “Cattiva” is used when one wants to describe a person or situation that is naughty but yet cool. This was the inspiration which served as a basis of the designers of the new model. The result is a standout, factory-customized Cinquecento with a “blacked out” look and an aggressive demeanor.

Moreover, the new Fiat 500 Cattiva will deliver the 500 Sport and 500 Turbo models with a factory-tuned look. In fact, the vehicle has as a basis the Fiat Design concept which was officially revealed at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. However, the new limited edition model will add more excitement and tuned style to the 2013 Fiat 500 Sport and more powerful Fiat 500 Turbo models.

The aggressive stance of the new model is achieved via the blacked-out headlamp, taillamp and parking lamp bezels and unique 16-inch Hyper Nero painted aluminum wheels with all-season performance tires. Additionally, what enhance the silhouette of the car are the one-of-a-kind Gloss Nero roof and the performance spoiler.

The 500 Cattiva will be offered in a choice of several exterior colors: Rosso (red), Rame (copper), Nero Puro (straight black), Argento (silver), Granito Lucente (granite crystal), Bianco (white) and Luce Blue (light blue, 500 Sport only).

The interior of this new Fiat is also stunning. It continues the exclusive exterior design and includes the following: Nero interior environment paired with Nero/Grigio (black/gray) cloth sport seats with Argento (silver) accent stitching, optional Nero leather-trimmed seats, Matte Nero instrument panel, Nero leather-wrapped shift knob and sport steering wheel hand-stitched with Argento accent thread.

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva which is based on the 500 Sport will be powered by the innovative 1.4-liter MultiAir engine mated to a C514 five-speed manual transmission that deliver an EPA estimated 31 mpg city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy. There is a six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes offered as an option. In addition, the Cattiva also features engaging dynamics, which includes a driver selectable “Sport” mode on the instrument panel.

Fiat 500 Cattiva which is based on the 500 Turbo will be equipped with the MultiAir Turbo engine and sport-tuned exhaust. It is capable of generating 135 hp (100 kW) and 203 Nm (150 lb-ft). The unit is mated as a standard to the track-proven C510 five-speed manual transmission that includes an intermediate shaft with equal-length half shafts to mitigate torque steer.

2013 Fiat 500 Cattiva is going to be available at dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year and will have a starting price of $18,350.

Source: Fiat

August 14, 2013

Lamborghini Veneno To Make North American Debut At Pebble Beach

This year the luxury brand Lamborghini is celebrating its 50th Anniversary. For this occasion the company will host the North American debut of its ‘one-off’ Veneno show car at the annual Pebble Beach Automotive Week. Next to the unique model will be also on display the first-ever prototype of the Italian brand – the 1963 Lamborghini 350 GTV.

As a matter of fact, Lamborghini Veneno has a price tag of $4 Million. It generates the astonishing 750 horsepower (552 kW) thanks to its twelve-cylinder engine, and its architecture is mainly focused on optimum aerodynamics and cornering stability.

Of course, its lightweight design is achieved via the extensive use of carbon fiber. This is also evident on the scales: it has a power-to-weight ratio of 1.93 kg/hp (4.25 lbs/hp). In addition, Lamborghini has also used carbon fiber throughout the interior, which additionally reduces the weight of the supersports car.

The unveiling of the veneno will happen on 16th of August at the popular event. Later this year, three Veneno production cars will be delivered to clients around the world.

Source: Lamborghini

August 14, 2013

First Teaser Image Of Toyota Hybrid-R Concept Revelaed

It was announced a few days ago that Toyota will unveil at 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show a brand new concept vehicle named Hybrid-R. Now the Japanese brand is teasing the public with an image that gives a glimpse of what the car would look like.

The Hybrid-R is going to be based on a current Toyota production model. What is more, the concept will be equipped with a powertrain that includes similar technology to the one utilized in TS030 Hybrid race car. The latter took part in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

This means that the vehicle will combine a high-power internal combustion engine with electric motors. The result is expected to be stunning: an achievement of a maximum power output of more than 400 hp (298 kW).

In addition, a dual mode control will offer the option the car’s performance to be tailored to suit either road or racetrack. Toyota Hybrid-R Concept will be revealed at the event on 10th of September.

Source: Toyota

August 14, 2013

Spyker D8 Super SUV Concept To Return Next Year

Spyker just disclosed that it is going to unveil a revised D8 Peking to Paris super-SUV at 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The original concept was introduced back in 2006 at the same show and initially it carried the name D12 Peking-To-Paris Concept. Later, the name of the car was changed to D8.

The Dutch brand has also revealed that the engineering of the car has been already done, but what was left was the building of the tools and the production of the car. In fact, in order to make this P2P project come to reality, Spyker has joined forces with the Chinese company Youngman, which invested in it €25 million.

Furthermore, the company said that up to a maximum of 1000 examples of the car will be produced and sold throughout markets such as China and Russia. The P2P will be four-dour four-wheel-drive vehicle and it is going to be equipped with powerful mid-engine that is to deliver exhilarating performance. Unfortunately no additional details around the unit were revealed so far.

Spyker B6 Venator on the other hand will have its market launch in 2014. A convertible version of the B6 will be on display at 2013 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance later this month.

Source: www.autocar.co.uk

August 13, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova