Lidia Todorova – Page 238 – Automobiles Review

NRW Volkswagen Passat CC With Enhanced Power Output

The latest project by FolienCenter-NRW is this Volkswagen Passat CC which has been wrapped with high-grade Marrakech brown-matt taken from the Hexis foil program. However, they have made a contrast with the warm brown colour shade and the roof, external rear-view mirrors and the radiator grill which were covered in glossy black.

In addition, there is also a three-dimensional “R” relief which is embossed on the broad C-column in the wrapping dress. It is naturally reflected in the factory-installed R-line bodywork package of the luxurious flagship.

The specialists have also equipped this Volkswagen with new set of shoes. To make it even more luxurious they have included Bentley Mulliner rims with matt-black stars which perfectly match the 9×20-inch Nobel wheels. The latter in addition were applied with Nankang NS-II tyres of the dimension 225/30R20.

Furthermore, the CC was given a lowering DDC coilover kit which ensures that the wheel-tyre combination is completely fitted in the wheel houses. An additional boost in the engine was delivered by SKN. The professionals there managed to increase the output of the 2.0 litre TDI engine from 170 hp (125 kW) to about 210 hp (155 kW) via “stage 1” engine map optimization.

This enhancement also resulted in increase of maximum torque which now is more than 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) and thus leading to a powerful thrust whenever the accelerator is pressed.

At last, FolienCenter-NRW also put some efforts on the interior of the Passat CC. For instance the company equipped the car with aluminium surface of the R-line package on the dashboard, centre console and door linings wrapped in the colour of the car, R-line sports steering wheel which is flattened below and R-line aluminium pedal systems.

Source: FolienCenter-NRW

June 5, 2013

Kia Pro_cee’d GT Cabrio Drawing Takes Over The Web

A drawing of a topless version of the Kia Pro_cee’d GT has been circulating around the web thus provoking many questions to be posed. Since officials at Kia said that, there have been numerous rumours that the Korean brand would indeed enter a cabrio into the market, this particular image made big discussions all over the Internet. However, the promise Kia has made is still unrealized.

These facts also inspire car enthusiasts and designers to create a picture of what a Kia cabrio GT might look like, and this is how the image above has been born. This particular Kia Pro-cee’d GT Cabrio concept drawing is of course only speculation. Nevertheless it brings about the thought that such a model would not be out of the realm of possibility.

Given that Kia has recently revealed their decision to expand the GT model range, the convertible version of the car would fit in very nicely with Kia’s current GT family. And to go even further into the realm of imagination, if we can guess what kind of engine will be used for such model, it would probably be the 204 horsepower (150 kW) 1.6L four-cylinder petrol unit fitted with a twin-scroll turbocharger.

The only thing left is just to have the expectation that we could have the happiness of seeing such GT Cabrio in the showrooms by the end of 2015.

News And Picture Source: kia-world

June 4, 2013

Alfa Romeo 4C Debuts At 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Alfa Romeo 4C is going to make a debut at 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The event will take place between 12th and 14th of July and in addition, there will be also presented the exclusive “Launch Edition” of the compact supercar.

Back in March was the official debut of the “Launch Edition” at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show. There the vehicle showcased the true meaning of Italian sports car, embodying style, performance and technical excellence and offering maximum driving satisfaction in total safety.

To go further into details, the Alfa 4C is a mid-engined, rear wheel drive, compact sports coupé. It will offer its customers supreme agility with compact dimensions of just under 4 m length and 2 m width and 118 cm height. These dimensions contribute for greater aerodynamism and efficiency.

This Alfa Romeo is powered by an aluminium direct-injection1750cc turbo petrol engine, that produces 240 hp (175 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The unit is matched with Alfa’s TCT transmission. The effect is a Vmax of over 155mph, and an acceleration time of 4.5 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

In addition, a new version of the Alfa DNA selector fitted to the 4C will also include a new Race mode alongside the original three options – Dynamic, Natural and All Weather. The result is an unforgettable and exciting driving experience.

Source: Alfa Romeo

June 4, 2013

Caterham Make Le Mans 24 Hours Debut

Caterham is going to participate for the first time in the Le Mans 24 Hours this year which will take place on 22nd and 23rd of June this year. In addition, the British company aims to investigate the viability of producing a customer Sports Prorotype package in the future.

The team will compete in the event with the Caterham SP 300R model which is a supercharged, mini Le Mans-style sports prototype. It has achieved glowing reviews from customers and media so far. In addition, there will be also the crew Caterham engineers, technicians and data analysts who will add the future success of the brand.

As a matter of fact, Caterham has an abundant heritage in motorsport. For instance, the most famous car of the company is the iconic Seven which was initially designed to be a race car for the road and its ‘ladder’ of highly-competitive one-make race championships is widely acknowledged as one of the finest in existence.

In addition, Le Mans 24 Hours will also be the first foray into international sportscar racing for Alexander Rossi. The Caterham Motorsport #41 LM P2 car will make its on-track premiere at the official ACO test at Le Mans on 8th and 9th of June. The official race will happen as mentioned above on the 22nd and 23rd of June.

Source: Caterham

June 4, 2013

2013 Porsche 911 50 Years Anniversary Edition

This year Porsche is celebrating a 50 year anniversary of the emblematic 911 sports car model. The celebration will happen at event at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt on 12th of September, where a commemorative 50 Years Edition of the model will make its premiere. The special model will be limited to 1963 cars.

This number is not accidental. Back in 1963 the company presented the original model to the public as the type 901. The new special edition is inspired by the first coupe and therefore it combines a distinctive silhouette with a rear-mounted, flat-six engine and rear wheel drive.

However, it delivers more efficient performance, and includes active sports suspension and exclusive body styling which result in modern visual characteristics. To be more precise, the special anniversary 911 is based on the 911 Carrera S. Nonetheless, it has wider body – 44 mm broader across the rear wheel arches.

What is more, the exterior styling includes features such as Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), special tuning to complement the increased track width, sports exhaust system for greater driving enjoinment.

What propels this car is the 3.8-litre flat-six engine, which generates 400 hp (295 kW) and thanks to which the 911 50 Years Edition sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph. The combined fuel consumption is 29.7 mpg, which equates to CO2 emissions of 224 g/km.

One-of-a-kind five-spoke cast alloy wheels give further contemporary interpretation of 911. The new 20-inch diameter wheels are finished in matt black paint with machine-polished centres. The anniversary edition is being offered in darker Graphite Grey, lighter Geyser Grey metallic and Black color.

Each of the 1963 cars has a unique ‘911 50’ badge finished in two-tone 3D-style on the rear lid. It also can be seen on the passenger side fascia strip together with the limited edition number of the individual vehicle.

Other special exterior elements included in the design of this Porsche are the high-gloss window frames and SportDesign exterior mirrors, Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and standard Bi-Xenon headlights.

Furthermore, the interior of the car includes styling touches similar to the original 911 such as green labelling on the instruments with white pointer needles and silver caps on the instrument pivot pins. In addition, the centre panels of the leather seats are reminiscent to the ‘Pepita’ tartan design from the 1960s.

According to customer’s choice, the leather interior can be ordered in Agate Grey or Black with decorative stitching. As a standard this special edition Porsche is equipped with sports seats with 14-way adjustment, while the 18-way Sport Seats Plus are optional.

2013 Porsche 911 50 Years Edition is already available and has a starting price of £92 257.

Source: Porsche

June 4, 2013

MINI Extends The Range of All-Wheel Models

MINI will offer its all-wheel drive system ALL4 in two new more morels: in the MINI Cooper Countryman and the MINI Cooper Paceman. The new vehicles will be available from July this year, thus increasing the number of all-wheel versions within the MINI model range to ten models.

The new MINIs will be also equipped with six-speed manual transmission as standard, and the customers will have the choice of six-speed automatic transmission as an option. Through the introduction of ALL4, these models will now have enhanced traction and driving stability on snow, sand or slippery surfaces, and extra grip on twisty roads.

As a matter of fact, the ALL4 technology is based on an electromagnetic centre differential and distributes drive force at continuously variable levels between the front and rear axle. The electronic control system that it includes is integrated directly in the Stability Control (DSC) control unit.

The all-wheel drive system distributes the power of the 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine between the front and rear wheels. The unit generates 122 hp (90 kW) and has a torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) at an engine speed of 4,250 rpm.

The result is that the for instance the MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 12 seconds on its way to a top speed of 184 km/h. In addition this model has an average fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 167 grams per kilometre.

On the other hand, the new MINI Cooper Paceman ALL4 needs only 11.8 seconds for the same sprint from standstill to 100 km/h. It has a Vmax of 185 km/h and a fuel consumption and CO2 emission levels the same as those of the MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4.

Source: MINI

June 3, 2013

Reuss Paced Indy Dual In Detroit In 2014 Corvette Stingray [VIDEO]

The president of General Motors North America himself – Mark Reuss had driven the 2014 Corvette Stingray Pace Car in the Chevrolet Indy Dual in Detroit this weekend. Being a lifelong racing enthusiast he had the opportunity and experienced the joy of driving this unique automobile.

The Indy Dual in Detroit races are part of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix weekend. It began this Friday on 31st of May, where Reuss participated in both Indy Dual races. He said that the experience was a thrill for him given that it was for him for the first time to drive the model on a greater field.

The audience at the event had the opportunity of seeing the Corvette Pace Car earlier. In fact, the production model that goes on sale later this summer. Corvette Stingray Pace Car is powered by the all-new 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 from the forthcoming production model. It also includes advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management.

The unit generates 460 horsepower (338 kW) with the available performance exhaust system. The interior on the other hand is made via carbon fiber and aluminum trim, hand-wrapped leather materials, and also features dual eight-inch configurable infotainment screens, and two new seat choices.

The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe will go on sale later this summer and will have a starting price of $51 995.

httpv://youtu.be/Lik69OBYPQs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

June 3, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Malibu Delivers More Roominess

2014 Chevrolet Malibu has been unveiled and it comes to offer to its customers more space, refinements and efficiency. It includes an updated styling and interior, as well as new 2.5L standard engine and suspension enhancements.

To be more precise, the new and enhanced features include a revised front-end appearance, a roomier rear seat with 1.25 inches (31.7 mm) more knee room, a redesigned center console, a new 2.5L engine with variable valve lift control and start/stop technology with estimated fuel economy of 23 city / 35 highway, more torque from the available 2.0L turbo engine – 295 lb-ft (400 Nm), suspension enhancements, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features.

The new front-end of the model is influenced by the Impala, and it includes more prominent lower grille and the hood. The latter extends down and over the leading edge of a narrower upper grille which in turn features openings – with black grille texture.

The interior of the car features redesigned seats in order to bring about more roominess for the occupants and of course – greater comfort. In addition, the center console has been redesigned and now has a longer armrest, cup holders and dedicated storage for two cell phones.

In terms of efficiency, there has been made some improvements as well. As a standard this new Chevrolet will be equipped with the Ecotec 2.5L Intake Valve Lift Control DOHC four-cylinder engine with direct injection. Its variable intake valve actuation brings about better efficiency and helps lower emissions. At the same time it also enhances the low-rpm torque.

What is more, there is also featured a new start/stop technology which shuts down the 2.5L engine in order to save fuel when the Malibu stops momentarily. Another technological advancement is the auxiliary battery that powers the electric accessories such as the climate system, power windows and radio during engine restarts.

The new 2.5L unit produces 196 horsepower (145 kW) and 186 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm). There is also available the optional 2.0L turbo engine which generates 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque.

The designers of the new 2014 Malibu have worked also to refine the chassis in order to deliver better driving experience. The new rebound springs that are internal to the struts enable more refined calibration of the dampers for a smoother overall ride, while also enhancing body roll control and weight transfer during acceleration or turning.

The additional chassis control technologies feature the following: four-channel anti-lock brakes, full-function traction control, four-corner electronic stability control, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist system, corner brake control, hydraulic brake fade assist and drag torque control.

At last, the other optional safety features offered here include the New Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Malibu also comes with 10 standard air bags and an available rearview camera system. 2014 Chevrolet Malibu goes on sale this autumn.

Source: Chevrolet

June 3, 2013

Japanese Debut For LaFerrari

LaFerrari is the first hybrid supercar built at Maranello by the iconic Italian brand. The latest member of the limited special edition series has just made its first appearance in Japan last night. It was shown to a group of selected owners and enthusiasts of the brand in an exclusive event in the centre of Tokyo.

The hybrid technology which is utilized in this project is called HY-KERS and it delivers a combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. To be more precise, this Ferrari emits only 330 g/km of CO2 without the use of the electric system. When it is “On”, the full-electric version of LaFerrari achieves just 220 g/km of CO2 emissions on the combined cycle.

To go even further into details, the engine of this vehicle is a 6.3 liter V12 and it generates 800 hp (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. Thanks to the HY-KERS, the overall power becomes 963 hp (708 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). These numbers simply result in an effortless acceleration time of less than 3 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

In addition, the guests at the event enjoyed a special exhibition called “Supercar Chronicle” where supercars such as the 288 GTO, the F40, the F50 and the Enzo were presented. The LaFerrari was introduced in an elegant ceremony, which matched the exclusivity of a car of which only 499 examples will be built.

Source: Ferrari

June 3, 2013

TEASER: Caterham Introduces Entry-Level Version Of The Iconic Seven

Caterham has just released a dark teaser photograph of their upcoming new entry-level version of the iconic Seven model. The new vehicle is designed to pay homage to the brand’s engineering DNA of “adding lightness”. Therefore it is going to be equipped with a super-compact, flexible and EU6-compliant engine.

In addition, the Caterham promises that the new model is going to e offered at an affordable price under £17 000. This year, the British brand celebrates 40 years of developing and manufacturing the Seven. Consequently, the designers decided to bring as close as possible the new “Seven” to its simple design roots but remain true to Caterham’s mantra of delivering “accessible fun”.

Back in the days, Colin Chapman designed the original Seven with the aim to have totally “fit-for-purpose” design and to deliver exciting driving experience. With that in mind, the new entry-level Seven is planned to be simple, easy to run and an intuitive drive.

Furthermore, Caterham’s minimalist DNA philosophy is applied to every aspect in the new upcoming vehicle. This also includes the unit it is equipped with and therefore it is expected that this would be the most fuel-efficient Seven ever built.

The car hasn’t been named yet, however it is planned for it to be launched in autumn this year. The first deliveries are expected to happen before the end of 2013.

Source: Caterham

May 31, 2013

Rolls-Royce Wraith Makes Italian Debut By Lake Como

Rolls-Royce Wraith just made its Italian debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio. The Wraith model is the boldest and most powerful Rolls-Royce ever produced. The two-door luxury coupé with fastback design promises to deliver extraordinary power and style.

To be more precise, the vehicle is equipped with a twin-turbo V12 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission. The unit is capable of generating 624 bhp (465kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque from 1500 rpm. This delivers an instant acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h for just 4.4 seconds.

As a matter of fact, Wraith was inspired by grand Italian and British fastback designs from the 1930s, but it of course makes a step further. Every inch of this Rolls-Royce is refined and luxurious. Therefore it delivers the comfort one would expect from the pinnacle brand.

Moreover, the new Rolls-Royce Wraith is equipped with wide range of exclusive technologies. For instance, the Satellite Aided Transmission processes GPS data to predict the driver’s next move. It operates by automatically choosing the correct gear for the road ahead. There is also included a one-touch call button akin to an on-board valet. It allows navigation, telephone and multimedia to be controlled via voice.

Throughout the interior can be seen the prominent utilization of the finest materials. Canadel Panelling – a tactile, open grain wood sweeps round the lower hull of Wraith’s interior. Next, a Starlight Headliner rounds-off the glamour. It bathes cabin in a warm glow via its thousands of tiny fibre-optic lamps hand-woven into the roof-lining.

At Lake Como was the stage where the Wraith made its official debut in Italy. There were also presented past, present and future Rolls-Royce cars. Another highlight at the event was the Silver Ghost, which was driven by Radley to victory in the Alpine Trials 100 years ago in Austria, Italy and Switzerland.

In addition, both vehicles were accompanied by the Ghost Alpine Trial Centenary Collection model. The latter was designed in order to celebrate the centenary of the Alpine Trials and Bespoke personalization.

Source: Rolls-Royce

May 31, 2013

From Concept To Reality: Lexus LF-CC Enters Production

Lexus has just confirmed their next exclusive news: the brand is going to enter in production its outstanding concept LF-CC which provides an insight into brand’s continued focus on leading-edge innovation and design.

LF-CC is inspired by the all-new IS Line and in addition, gives a hint of the future two-door mid-size coupe which is scheduled for production. What is more, the new production vehicle will mainly focus on design and driving dynamics, besides the inherent luxury it delivers.

The new model is going to be equipped with the powerful and efficient 2.5-litre hybrid drivetrain which will also feature D4-S (direct and port) injection. The combined petrol-electric hybrid unit is expected to generate only 113 grams of CO2 per kilometer, while the fuel consumption here is estimated around 4.9 litres of fuel per 100km (combined cycle). The combined power output of the car is 223 hp (164 kW).

The exterior design philosophy of the LF-CC focuses on the development of brand’s unique L-finesse design language. It is characterized by the boldest interpretation of Lexus’ signature “spindle” grille, which is this case is framed by the bonnet lip, deep lower spoiler and powerfully projecting front guard tips. It is encased in a deep metal-finish surround and takes on a pronounced 3 dimensional form.

In addition, the three LED-projector headlamp designs are housed between the lower and upper guard surfaces. On the other hand, the independent Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) are entirelly integrated into the upper bumper surface, while the broad lower guards are aerodynamically formed in order to master the flow of air to the engine bay and front brakes.

When one looks the car in profile, all they see are flowing lines. The curve of the bonnet for instance flows through to windscreen into a roofline which peaks towards the rear of the cabin. It is visible that the rear guard is less pronounced than that of the front. This results in the concentration of car’s weight over the driven wheels, which in turn delivers maximum traction.

At the rear, one sees a rear spoiler integrated within the boot lid, a full-width bumper ensuring a broad and powerful stance, L-shaped combination lamps feature with three-dimensional design, lower concave bumper with full-width spoiler and a rear stop lamp which is integrated into the shark antenna.

The 2014 LF-CC has an exterior color the new “Fluid Titanium” shade. This is a metallic finish that has exceptionally high brilliance which in turn further emphasizes the powerful forms of the bodywork’s sculpted surfaces.

Next, the interior design of the car delivers nothing less than luxury. In addition, its goal is to represent the next step in the development of the company’s Human Machine Interface (HMI) design philosophy.

Here, the dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper Display Zone and a lower Operation Zone. The first zone includes a multi-display screen positioned at an ideal distance for at-a-glance viewing. The second – allows access to the shift lever and an innovative touch tracer display for remote system control.

Furthermore, the person behind the steering wheel will benefit from a low, highly focused driving position with a sports steering wheel, optimum pedal placement and high-visibility instrument dials. In accordance with the exterior design color, the interior features seats, door panels and instrument binnacle hood in a warm, elegant amber leather finish.

In addition, the prominent utilization of metallic finishes and soft touch materials strengthens the premium quality of the environment. The contrast between the exterior and interior color schemes delivers elegant and at the same time sporting image.

Source: Lexus

May 31, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova