Lidia Todorova – Page 230 – Automobiles Review

2014 Suzuki Swift SZ4 4×4 Model Introduced

2014 Suzuki Swift SZ4 4×4 is being introduced to the European continent after its huge success in Japan. The strong heritage the brand has for 4WD models will make this Swift a true on-road icon.

The model will be offered as a five door 1.2 petrol model with manual transmission and equipped as either an SZ3 or SZ4 grade. Furthermore, the innovations around it include the new badging and the slightly increased body ride height of 25 mm. This makes the SZ3 the same in terms of ride height as the SZ3 five door.

Next to it, the SZ4 model has a more aggressive appearance and in addition delivers enhanced protection over rough ground. This is achieved via the new front and rear skid plates, black wheel arch extensions and black side skirts.

2014 Suzuki Swift SZ4 4×4 is equipped with the well established and simple fully automatic and permanent 4-wheel drive system. The latter transfers additional torque to the rear wheels when required via a viscous coupling. This in turn, further improves highly acclaimed cornering ability of the vehicle.

The aforementioned details makes the car the perfect choice for those who live in rural areas and need more mobility, or for crossing slippery surfaces during winter without owning a larger and more conventional SUV sized vehicle.

Moreover, Suzuki has utilized in this model small and lightweight components, which make it just 65 kg heavier than an equivalent 2WD petrol model. The result is that the SZ4 4×4 delivers only 126 g/km of CO2 emissions. SZ4 model now also includes power folding door mirrors with integral indicators and Daylight Running Lamps as standard equipment.

Source: Suzuki

July 9, 2013

Kahn Porsche Cayenne 3.0 Diesel V6 Supersport Wide Track

The current vehicle under the power of the designers at A. Kahn Design is the Porsche Cayenne 3.0 Diesel, which is equipped as a standard with V6 engine and in addition has been tuned with the Super Sport Wide Track. In other terms it is technically outstanding.

We have already seen that Kahn has transformed a white Cayenne for this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Now this example is painted in Carmine Red exterior paint, which ensures the car looks compact, athletic and delivers ride comfort and exquisite finesse.

Furthermore, to make the exterior of this Porsche look even more masterful on the road, the specialists have equipped it with vented front and rear wide wheel arches with integrated air dams, door entry sill plates in stainless steel, exterior Kahn enamel tailgate logo, Kahn enamel wing shields, 9.5 x 22 inch and 11 x 22 inch RS600 wheels for the front and rear respectively, sports lowered suspension springs and brake calipers finished in liquid gold.

The latter elements also serve in terms of enhancing aerodynamics and efficiency as well as handling. Moreover, the driver of the car will sit behind a privacy glass and pilot it while listening to the purr of the engine and the Kahn cross hair exhaust system.

Next, when one steps inside, one can find the familiar Kahn bespoke touch, which this time consists of exclusive front and rear seats in black and carbon quilted and perforated leather, in an exclusive combination with ivory contrast stitching, further accented by deviated stitching throughout. Vented foot pedals and a Kahn Investing in British Industry Logo finish the exclusive look of the package.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 8, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: Opel Teases Monza Concept [VIDEO]

Opel and Vauxhall are going to unveil their new exclusive concept called Monza at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. However, they have just teased the car with exclusive images and a video, which gives a glimpse over the innovative design of the Monza.

In the video, the concept is unveiled by Karl-Thomas Neumann, who states that this vehicle represents a vision of the company’s future and will set the beginning of the next generation of Opel/Vauxhall vehicles.

The new conpcept focuses on two major points: efficiency and connectivity. Both are expected to be the top priorities for all working on the next-generation models. This means that the Monza demonstrates rxcellent efficiency through its architecture and use of materials.

In addition, it features outstanding aerodynamics and ground-breaking powertrain solution. The connectivity point is covered by the possibilities offered by the new infotainment systems included. On the other hand, in terms of exterior, the Cr expresses a sense of lithe athleticism, rather than pure muscle power.

The front of the vehicle impresses the viewer with its low stance, flowing lines, clearly defined bonnet and striking headlamp treatment. The additionally developed signature Vauxhall themes are embedded in the overall look. For example, the typical crease on the bonnet now has a more three-dimensional look.

On the other hand, the chrome grille bar, on which can be seen the logo of the brand, sweeps up with winglets at its tips. Additionally, there are also added two characteristic blades under the headlamps. All this results in a light, athletic look of the concept, which also conveys efficiency, excitement and driving fun.

Although there are no additional details released yet, Neumann says that the interior design of Monza Concept will include trend-setting technologies which will change the driving experience once and for all. Moreover, he adds that the innovative body design and perfect proportions will “turn heads”.

httpv://youtu.be/hkOlIHVW9XU

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vauxhall

July 8, 2013

Bluebird To Launch DC50 Sports Car And GTL Formula E At Sustainable MotoExpo

The official premiere of the Bluebird DC50 Electric Sports Car and Bluebird GTL Formula E will be held at Sustainable MotoExpo on 28th of September this year, at National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. The Bluebird name is ssociated with innovative technology and tradition and this is what we are to expect from the brand at the event.

First, the DC50 electric sports car is limited edition of just 50 units and it is built especially to celebrate the 50th anniversary in 2014 of Donald Campbell’s land and water speed records. The two door-coupe has a power output of 360 hp (265 kW) and delivers acceleration which can match a Porsche. Equipped with electrically operated ‘scissor’ doors, it has a range of up to 200 miles. It will be available only in one exterior color – Bluebird blue.

Another debut will make the Bluebird GTL electric race car, which was designed according to the latest technical regulations for the forthcoming FIA Formula E series. It represents brand’s philosophy for the all-electric global race series, which are to start in 2014.

The two day event will include 600 m circuit with live electric vehicle (EV) demonstrations. There will be displays of the latest electric and hybrid vehicles designed by other brands. In addition, there will be also held programmes of seminars about all aspects of e-motor sport and of the development of low carbon and EVs as city transport.

Source: Bluebird

July 8, 2013

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking Gets Moparized

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking brings its own special spirit to the 500L family via its high ride and specific bumpers with protective shield, smart front-wheel drive with Traction+ and ‘Snowflake’ Mud & Snow tyres. It was jut announced that this model will be supported by Mopar through exclusive accessories.

For instance it will be equipped with mirror domes, Italy badge, tyre valve covers sporting the Fiat logo, pedal board kit with footrest, the luggage compartment organiser, the jacket hanger, the kick plate and mats with the brand logo.

There are also four new exclusive body sticker kits which makes the fiat look even more distinctive. In addition there are also being offered unique satin-finish moulding on the bonnet, refined chrome accents and an original ‘brunex grey’ painted alloy rims.

At the same there are also being offered versatile merchandise collections which were designed with the aim to live the Fiat 500L Trekking style to the full. They include a range of very high quality products such as a waterproof travel bag, a beach backpack with beach towel, cushion with two integrated speakers and a Bluetooth, camouflage polo T-shirt and cap with embroidered logo.

More importantly, an innovation offered by Mopar here is the “Telematic Box”, which is available on the entire 500L range. To be more precise this is an electronic control unit which records the driving style data and then delivers a number of important advantages.

2014 Fiat 500L Trekking debuted at the end of last year, showing-off to the world its inherent versatility, style and character. The Fiat 500L Trekking is available with two petrol engines – the 95 hp (70 kW) 1.4 16v and the 105 hp (77 kW) 0.9 TwinAir Turbo – and two turbo diesel engines – the 105 hp (77 kW) 1.6 MultiJet II and the 85 hp (63 kW) 1.3 MultiJet II, the latter comes also matched to a Dualogic robotised automatic transmission.

Source: Fiat

July 5, 2013

The 500 Family Grows With The New 2014 Fiat 500L Living

2014 Fiat 500L Living - Side Fiat 500L family is expanding with the addition of the new 2014 Fiat 500L Living. Of course, the model is based on the emblematic Fiat 500 which has become a global success through the years.

The 500L Living reaches out to a versatile audience, which is searching for the harmony between functionality and design. It offers flexibility of utilization and the iconic Italian style.

Fiat‘s new Magic Purpose Wagon offers the charm of a 500, the agility and compactness of a mid-sized car, the comfort and content of a C-segment station wagon and the space and versatility of an MPV.

Furthermore, the car also comes to offer unmistakeable ‘made in Fiat’ design which has the optimum balance between interior space and exterior dimensions. The highlight here is that it includes a third row seat, but keeps compact proportions. The vehicle has 435 cm length, 178 cm width and 167 cm height.

2014 Fiat 500L - interior

Although it is 20 cm shorter than a C-segment Station Wagon, 500L Living ensures great comfort, space and load capacity, thanks to its 638 litre load capacity. All the aforementioned qualities of the new model, make it perfect for a family use, and also make it a car which appeals to a wide range of people.

Furthermore, the model will be offered with one petrol engine – the 105 hp (77 kW) 0.9 TwinAir Turbo, as well as two turbodiesels – the 105 hp (77 kW) 1.6 MultiJet II and the 85 hp (63 kW) 1.3 MultiJet II. They are matche with manual transmissions, and the latter can be couple with automatic transmission as well.

The range includes two trim levels – Pop Star and Lounge. Both are designed with 5 or 7 seats, and with 19 different body colours (including 11 two-tone combinations). There are also offered 6 interior trims, 15 different types of alloy wheels and hub caps. The new Fiat 500L Living also includes integrated navigation system and rear camera which will help the driver in the reversing manoeuvres.

Source: Fiat

July 5, 2013

2014 Volvo XC90 To Feature World Class Safety And Support Technologies

2014 Volvo XC90 is going to be equipped with a number of user-friendly safety and support technologies. First of all the brand is introducing the autonomous steering to avoid accidents and make driving more comfortable.

Next, the other new technologies which will be available are the Pedestrian Detection in darkness, Road edge and barrier detection with steer assist and Adaptive Cruise Control with steer assist.

The first featured technology makes possible the detection and auto brake for other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. The second one – the Road edge and barrier detection with steer assist is a feature which detects if the car is about to drive off the road. Then this system autonomously applies steering torque to bring the vehicle back on track.

At last, the Adaptive Cruise Control with steer assist is a technology which assists the driver stay in the lane and follows the rhythm of the traffic.

In addition to those three mentioned advancements, this Volvo will also feature Animal Detection system, which detects and automatically brakes for animals both in daylight and in the dark. However, this technology, will be introduced after the all-new XC90 arrives by the end of 2014.

Furthermore, it is also expected, that the car will include Towards zero system, which enables vehicles to communicate with each other and with the traffic environment, in order to bring about safer driving.

The Autonomous Parking concept technology on the other hand allows the vehicle to find and park in a vacant space by itself. It was introduced by the brand ten days ago, and it basically functions by allowing the driver to leave the vehicle at the entrance to the car park, and to interact safely with other cars and pedestrians in the car park

Source: Volvo

July 5, 2013

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo Series With Debut In North America

Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series is going to make its debut in North America at the AMLS North Eastern Grand Prix at Lime Rock Park this week. The model is a single make series, which can be used as a base from those who want to go to professional GT racing.

The series is based on the Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo. The latter includes 570 hp (420 kW), all-wheel drive and variable aerodynamics, which result in a downforce range from 282lbs (128kg) to 352lbs (160kg). This means that the Super Trofeo allows drivers to master high-level sports car racing competition skills.

In addition, this Lamborghini is the high standard of off-track hospitality that features a genuine sense of esprit de corps among competitors. In fact, it represents a bold statement of commitment towards motorsport.

The introduction of the model to the IMSA portfolio is an historic moment for sports car racing in the North America, because the luxury Italian brand will eventually have its representative there. Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo North American series will feature five races run in partnership with North America’s most established racing promoters including GRAND-AM, ALMS, IMSA and IndyCar and at some of the most prestigious circuits in the US and Canada.

Source: Lamborghini

July 5, 2013

Icona Vulcano To Debut at Salon Prive

At Salon Privé, which will take place between 4th and 6th of September in London’s Syon Park, is going to happen a very special debut. It has been confirmed that the strongly anticipated Icona Vulcano will make its official premiere on the European continent there.

The brand Icona was established in 2010 when it launched an electric concept car called Fuselage. The latter was a finalist at the 27th Festival Automobile International in Paris in the World’s Most Beautiful Concept Car competition.

Since then, the specialists at Icona have been gathering forces and putting all their attention in the development of the Vulcano model, which we have been seeing teased during the past five months. In fact, the glamorous two-door, two-seater super sports car made its world premiere in Shanghai earlier this year.

Vulcano is equipped with V12 Hybrid engine, thanks to which it can produce up to 950 hp (662 kW). The top speed here is as high as 350 km/h and in addition the car offers staggering acceleration time of less than 9 seconds from 0 to 200 km/h.

Icona Vulcano was engineered by world famous former Scuderia Ferrari technical director Claudio Lombardi, and it exhibits unique color that carries the name “Red Magma”. The paint was especially created by the company and it is part of the design philosophy which aims to express the amazing capabilities of this extremely powerful car, while maintaining harmonious and generous shapes.

Source: Icona

July 4, 2013

Saleen 351 Mustang Goes Public And Is Ready For Production

Saleen 351 Mustang Prototype is based on Ford Mustang and as a matter of fact it debuted in April this year at Fabulous Fords at Knott’s Berry Farm in California. Now Saleen Automotive has announced that the breath-taking muscle car in on its way to production.

The specialists at Saleen have also disclosed that they have put incredible amount of o details and attention in this vehicle. They even said that according to their opinion they have found the perfect balance of design, technology, and power.

The 351 Mustang completes the trifecta of Speed, Science, and Style which is something emblematic for the tuning brand. More importantly, the muscle car is capable of producing 700 hp (515 kW) and 888 Nm (655 ft-lb) of torque, thanks to its supercharged 351 cubic inch V8 engine.

The power is transmitted onto the road via six-speed gearbox with 3.73:1 final drive ratio and a performance clutch system. The car runs on 20” alloy wheels matched with high-performance tires.

In the package is also included an enhanced brake system which features 15” brake discs. Other highlights include a butterfly hood scoop, carbon fiber front and rear splitters and rear diffuser.

In addition, the Saleen 351 is rounded out by its distinct aerodynamics and Red Butterfly Center Ram Air Induction system. The transformation can be done on both Hardtop and Convertible models.

Source: Saleen Automotive

July 4, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: VUHL 05 Revealed!

The VŪHL 05 has been finally revealed and shown to an exclusive audience at an event in Royal Automobile Club in London. After many months of secrecy and a few teasers released, the road-legal lightweight supercar has finally arrived.

The vehicle is an innovative mid-engined two-seater born of a motorsport heritage. The car is a project of Guillermo and Iker Echeverria, who were inspired by their father that was a professional driver who built and successfully raced his own cars for 30 years.

The brothers subsequently formed their own design agency, named ETXE, and started working on different projects including the VŪHL 05. In fact, they state that the 05 has been developed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. Their goal was to create a car which is highly intuitive and at the same time offers high speeds and fun of driving. As a result, they have given it class-leading ergonomics and a contemporary silhouette of striking proportions, and uncompromising build quality.

To go further into details, the 05’s monocoque weighs in at a mere 78 kg, while the dry weight of the entire car is a very competitive 695 kg. The chassis of the vehicle includes a three-section bonded tub which was made of aluminium extrusions and aluminium honeycomb. The latter is an aerospace technology that gives the 05 great levels of torsional rigidity for optimum handling.

Next to the passenger cell one can see the chrome-moly steel subframe in which are to be found the engine and rear suspension. A three-stage forward crash structure and double layer sidewalls deliver a matchless level of protection for the driver and the one seating next to them.

In addition, the standard body is made of RTM reinforced plastic. However, there is an option which includes a carbon fibre body. The aero features comprise of a flat underbody, front and lateral splitters, rear diffuser and rear spoiler.

Being a true sports car, the VŪHL 05 deliver great amount of power, which comes from a 2-litre version of Ford’s award-winning DOHC turbocharged EcoBoost engine. The exact output of the unit is 285 hp (210 kW) and it can generate 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque. This results in 0 to 100 km/h acceleration for 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h.

The power of the engine is transmitted onto the wheels via six-speed manual gearbox. Steering is by a high ratio rack and pinion system. On the other hand, the suspension is by unequal length double wishbones front and rear. Braking is by four-pot alloy callipers all-round, operating on 310 mm ventilated cross-drilled discs at the front and 280mm units at the rear.

Furthermore, the VŪHL 05 runs on OZ alloy wheels matched with Michelin tyres. The sizes of the latter are 205/45 x 17 for the front and 235/45 x 18 for the rear.

The interior of the vehicle is also made exquisite and it is very captivating. It includes carbon bucket seats, 330mm quick release water-resistant suede-covered steering wheel, electronic data acquisition dash, integral HD camera, and water-resistant Dinamica suede trim.

The pricing of the VŪHL 05 will begin at US$83 930 (£55 000).

VŪHL 05 Dimensions

Width	1876mm
Length	3718mm
Height	1120mm
Wheelbase	2300mm
Ground clearance	110mm
Dry weight	695kg
Kerb weight	725kg
Power to weight ratio	400bhp/tonne
Weight distribution	37/63 (front/rear)

Source: VŪHL

July 4, 2013

DMC Releases Images Of Its Third Lamborghini Aventador LP900 SV Spezial Version

The German Luxury Tuner DMC introduced on 12th of December their stunning and extreme project – the DMC Lamborghini Aventador LP900 SV (Spezial Version). Now, the specialists are aiming even higher, because they are releasing a new SV kit, which comes to build on the sound basis of the previous tuning package.

The high-tech manufacturer has transformed the Italian super-sports car with German perfection – dramatic appearance, efficient technology. More importantly, what makes the kit even more exclusive is that it is limited to only ten sets worldwide. In addition, it can not be bought by money.

The limited edition nature of this Aventador dictates that only a chosen few will be able to get the DMC SV. In fact, the kit took big inspiration from the Aventador J, introduced by Lamborghini in Geneva in 2012. One must be owner of DMC’s regular Molto Veloce Kit, in order to apply to get access to one of the 10 kits dubbed as the LP900 SV.

Now, DMC announces that they have 6 of the 10 cars already sold. The tuning brand also stated that in the coming few weeks it will introduce these cars by a stunning series of photos. You can view the photos of the third car sold in the picture gallery below.

Source: DMC

July 4, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova