Lidia Todorova – Page 241 – Automobiles Review

Jaguar-Inspired Artwork Unveiled At Clerkenwell Design Week

Jaguar as an artwork – yes, many consider the models of the iconic brand an art, however this time the focus falls on a stunning new art installation. The latter has been inspired by Jaguar design and created by Ewan Gallimore and Claire Miller who are students at Royal College of Art.

They work has been revealed to the opening of the Clerkenwell Design Week in London. Of course, the installation was created by RCA students in association with Jaguar’s Advance Design team in Whitley, Coventry. Both teams have used many of the technologies and facilities utilized in the creation of Jaguar concept cars and production designs. The brand is one of the main sponsors of Clerkenwell Design Week.

The aim of the teams was to create a “study” which expresses their vision of future Jaguar Design Language in either a sports or luxury context. According to Ewan and Claire, they wanted to create something truly special to catch the eye of company’s Design. The installation relates to the Jaguar’s sculptural volumes, bespoke materials and visual lightness, and moreover it expresses a seamless transition between interior and exterior space.

Source: Jaguar

May 22, 2013

2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster Adds More Summer Excitement

2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster will raise the spirits of this summer by its exceptional visual characteristics and new character. It stems from its coupé counterpart – the Exige S and keeps all of the race-bred sports car attributes.

With this convertible, Lotus is completing the Exige line-up and enhances the track focused collection by providing a new facet to the range. To be more precise this cabrio sportscar is powered by the same 3.5L V6 unit which we have seen in the coupé variants, however weighing in at 10kg less than the Exige S at 1166 kg.

The factory-fitted soft top vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.0 seconds, due to the capability of generating 345 hp (254 kW) at 7000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. This basically means that the Roadster matches the coupé’s mechanical performance and in addition has the same price – £52 900.

As a matter of fact, Lotus Exige S Roadster will deliver the lucky driver the perfect “joy” ride. The model is also available with the full list of options and extras found in the coupe variant, but adds additional interior option of quilted leather seats and door trim details.

Lotus Exige S Roadster at a glance:

Max Power: 345 hp (254 kW) at 7000 rpm
Max Torque: 295 lb ft (400 Nm) at 4500 rpm
0 – 60 mph 3.8 seconds
0 – 100 km/h 4.0 seconds
Max Speed: 145 mph (233 km/h)
Weight: 1166 kg

Lotus Exige S Roadster in details:

Engine: Mid-mounted, transverse 3.5 litre DOHC V6 VVTi, 24-valve equipped with Harrop HTV 1320 Supercharger
Transmission: 6 speed manual with sports ratios
Suspension: Fully independent double wishbone suspension with front and rear anti-roll bar; Bilstein high performance gas dampers and Eibach coaxial springs
Braking and Dynamic systems:
- AP-Racing four-piston callipers with ventilated and cross drilled cast-iron discs.
- Lotus / BOSCH Developed ABS/ESP system
- Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
- Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (Lotus DPM)
Wheels and Tyres: Lightweight cast alloy wheels (17” front and 18” rear) clad with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tyres.
Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions: urban 19.5 mpg – 14.5 litres / 100km; extra urban 37.2 mpg – 7.6 litres / 100km; combined – 28.0 mpg – 10.1 litres / 100km; CO2 emissions 236 g CO2 / km.

Source: Lotus

May 22, 2013

EXUBERANCE: D2Forged Porsche 997TT CV13

D2Forged Porsche 997TT CV13 comes to bring about its exquisite character thus making the fans even more excited of what it has to offer. Its exuberant red skin and its thirst for speed and acceleration is undoubtedly what makes everyone inpatient for the summer days and nights. And in addition being a true Porsche, this car will take anyone’s breath away.

In particular the 997TT is powered by a six-cylinder 3.8 liter boxer engine, which is able of generating 500 horsepower (370 kW). The unit is mated to a manual seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox. Therefore whit this amount of horsepower this D2Forged-tuned vehicle can accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194 mph (312 km/h).

To go even further into details, this is D2Forged’s latest multispoke creation and it is namely equipped with company’s CV13 Wheels. In fact, for the front the tuners have utilized Shallow Concave in size 20×9”, and for the rear – Deep Concave in size 20×1”. Both front and rear wheels include brushed aluminum finish with chrome lip and a gloss black inner barrel.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

May 21, 2013

2013 Toyota RAV4 Available With Toyota Genuine Accessories

2013 Toyota RAV4 has been already present on the market and it is now time to be additionally enhanced by an extensive range of Toyota Genuine accessories. The new generation RAV4 was unveiled in the end of November last year at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show.

But to go further into details, the range of additional equipment include polished alloy nudge bar engineered specifically for RAV4, side steps, cargo barrier, rubber cargo mat, scuff guard, bonnet protector and slim-line weather-shield. A lightweight Toyota Genuine roof racks features a locking system. For it there are additional accessories offered such as including a kayak cradle, bike carrier and 440-litre roof pod.

In addition, there is also available aerodynamic ski and snowboard carrier. It is offered in two lengths and is built from corrosion-resistant anodized aluminium. On can open it vie the push of a button, even while wearing thick ski gloves.

Furthermore, there is also available the Toyota ParkAssist System. In the front bumper it utilizes ultrasonic sensors. They can serve as a warning of nearby obstructions and can assist the driver in their judgment of the distance to objects close to the front of the car.

Floor mats from quality fibre with distinctive RAV4 branding are also included in the additional accessories. Here the driver’s mat includes two retainers to secure it to the floor. High-strength acrylic headlamp covers are available for GX and GXL grades. Also available, this time only on the GX specification, are reversing camera and display audio, durable seat covers and front mudguards.

Source: Toyota

May 21, 2013

2014 Subaru Legacy And Outback Now With Symmetrical AWD

2014 Subaru Legacy And Outback models are equipped now as a standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and many more additions. Despite the increased equipment, the 2014 models have almost the same price as those specified for the year 2013.

The Legacy 2.5i and Outback 2.5i models are propelled by a 173 horsepower (127 kW) 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine. It was introduced last year and it brought enhanced fuel efficiency. The engine of the Legacy can be either matched with a six-speed manual transmission or with the Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The Legacy 2.5i Premium and Limited models come standard with the CVT. On the other hand the Outback line offers a choice between the six-speed manual and CVT is offered on the 2.5i base and 2.5i Premium models. Outback 2.5i Limited comes as a standard with the CVT.

To be more precise, the Legacy and Outback 3.6R Limited models are powered by 3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER unit which is mated with a five-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivers 256 horsepower (188 kW).

What is absolutely new for the 2014 Legacy 2.5i Premium and Outback 2.5i Premium models is that they feature as a standard the All-Weather Package. The latter includes heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.

In addition, the Premium models also have a standard a display audio system with a 4.3-inch screen, 6 speakers and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. As an option there is available rear camera system.

Last year, Subaru introduced the advanced EyeSight driver-assist system for the Legacy and Outback Limited models. This year, the same feature is also present in the Premium trim line as an option. EyeSight utilizes innovative Subaru-developed stereo camera technology, integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning.

The brand today introduced the pricing for the 2014 Legacy and Outback model lines, which is listed in details below. It is important to mention that although the 2014 specifications have received upgrades, there is almost no increase over the 2013 models. The starting is estimated at $20 295.

2014 Subaru Legacy
Model/Trim	Transmission	Options available	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
Legacy 2.5i	6MT	—	$20,295	$21,090
Legacy 2.5i	CVT	01, 21	$21,295	$22,090
Legacy 2.5i Premium*	CVT	04, 39, 41	$23,295	$24,090
Legacy 2.5i Sport	CVT	02, 37	$25,245	$26,040
Legacy 2.5i Limited	CVT	04, 39, 43	$25,895	$26,690
Legacy 3.6R Limited	5AT	04, 39, 43	$28,895	$29,690

2014 Subaru Outback
Model/Trim	Transmission	Options available	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
Outback 2.5i	6MT	—	$23,495	$24,320
Outback 2.5i	CVT	21	$24,495	$25,320
Outback 2.5i Premium*	6MT	—	$25,795	$26,620
Outback 2.5i Premium*	CVT	04, 39, 41	$26,795	$27,620
Outback 2.5i Limited	CVT	04, 39, 43, 45	$29,095	$29,920
Outback 3.6R Limited	5AT	04, 39, 43, 45	$32,095	$32,920
Options
04	Moonroof Package			$1,445
21	Alloy Wheel Package (includes 17-in. alloy wheels and fog lights)			$300
37	Navigation System			$1,300
39	Moonroof Package and Navigation System			$2,745
41	Moonroof Package and EyeSight			$2,740
43	Moonroof Package, Navigation, EyeSight			$4,040
45 (Outback only)	Special Appearance Package* and EyeSight (Includes Moonroof, Navigation, Smart Key, Memory Seat and more)			$5,040

Source: Subaru

May 21, 2013

First Hennessey VelociRaptor SUV Unveiled [VIDEO]

Hennessey Performance (HPE) has just revealed their first and extremely successful modification on VelociRaptor SUV. The vehicle is based on the Ford F-150 Raptor and it is entirely transformed to a full-sized SUV with seating for up to 8 people.

This means that the VelociRaptor SUV offers more seats and space. All of the factory Ford Raptor truck components and systems are kept in tact. What powers this HPE model is the same 6.2L Ford V8 engine which delivers 411 horsepower (302 kW). However, the tuning brand has included to it its VelociRaptor 600 Supercharged upgrade.

Other optional enhancements here include: Brembo front brake upgrade, larger wheels and tires, LED lighting upgrades, bespoke interior, electronic upgrades, security and armoring systems. Although the vehicle’s weight is increased by approximately 600 lbs, the standard engine is still able in achieving 7.5 seconds acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

What is more, thanks to VelociRaptor 600 Supercharged upgrade, the SUV’s power is increased to 600 hp (441 kW). This drops the 0-100 km/h acceleration time to 5.9 seconds. Hennessey VelociRaptor SUV is priced at $149 500 and production is going to be limited to just 30 units per year.

httpv://youtu.be/ErdWEn0ryHI

httpv://youtu.be/AQAHHjHdIcs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey

May 21, 2013

BMW 5 Series Sedan And Gran Turismo – Specifications And Pricing Announced

BMW 5 Series is one of the best selling models around the world and now its 2014 facelift version is absolutely ready for a launch. Precise modifications to the design, the addition of a new inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine for the Sedan, and a wide range of exceptional equipment raise the appeal of the BMW 5 Series family even further.

In terms of design, a new BMW kidney grille and redesigned lower air intakes reinforce the sporty stance of the 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan. In addition, the width of the rear end is underscored by an extra crease in the apron and sharply contoured rear lights.

On the other hand, the 2014 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo has modified front apron and redesigned rear end that contributes to a longer and lower look. What is more, the depth to the dynamic character of the model is further reinforced by three-dimensional surface design for the area around the license plate holder and a chrome strip in the rear apron.

Xenon Adaptive headlights are standard on the models, while there are also optional Adaptive LED Headlights. Additional exterior paint colors, as well as light-alloy wheels, upholstery colors and interior trim elements for all BMW 5 Series serve as an enhancement element to the individualization of the cars. 2014 BMW 5 Series customers are now offered new additions to the range Calisto Grey metallic, Jatoba metallic, Mineral White metallic and Glacier Silver metallic.

Moreover, exclusively composed BMW Lines are now available for the first time as an alternative to standard specification. We are speaking here about the Luxury Line , Modern Line, and M Sport. All of them feature as an option to upgrade to luxurious Nappa Leather upholstery at no additional charge.

To be more precise, the Luxury Line includes high-class features for the exterior and interior. For instance, the chrome finish of the trim bars in the outer sections of the lower air intake, the fronts of the black kidney grille slats, the window recess finishers, the trim strip in the rear apron and the exhaust tips are something that has to be mentioned. The interior of the model includes leather upholstery with exclusive stitching, a black sports leather steering wheel and interior trim strips in exquisite Fine-line anthracite wood.

Next, the Modern Line comes to offer even more dynamism with its exceptionl air intake bars, kidney grille slats, rear trim strip and exhaust tips in matt chrome, and instrument panel and sports leather steering wheel ins Oyster light color shade.

The M Sport Package now includes M steering wheel, LED fog lights, and no-charge Nappa Leather upholstery.

The interior of the 5 Series adds new layers of functionality. The Central Display of the standard iDrive operating system for instance is now bordered in the Sedan by chrome trim. The storage compartments and cup holders in the center console of these models now have enhanced capacity.

More space is present, as well the use of exquisite materials and high-quality craftsmanship. The iDrive controller is now fitted as a standard Navigation system and includes a touchpad surface that allows character recognition.

The engine range of the 5 Series family have been further expanded by including the BMW 535d as the latest diesel variant in North America. In addition, BMW’s inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology makes 255 horsepower (188 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque from 1,500 – 3,000 rpm.

The top unit includes an updated V-8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology. It generates monstrous 445 horsepower (327 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. It can be found under the hood of the BMW 550i Sedan and BMW 550i Gran Turismo, allowing the firs to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.

Furthermore, the 2014 5 Series chassis technology now features double-wishbone front axle, integral rear axle and Servotronic variable power steering function. Specifically for Gran Turismo there is a standard air suspension with automatic self-leveling rear suspension, while the Driving Dynamics Control switch on the center console is standard on all models.

On the other hand, customers can chose as an option the Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering systems. Also standard are the Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start-Stop functionality, and ECO PRO mode, BMW EfficientDynamics technologies that further enhance the fuel efficiency.

Other innovative technologies included as an option are the BMW ConnectedDrive and iDrive4.2 that now comes with touchpad, which add more to the exclusiveness of the 2014 5 Series. The newly updated 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and Gran Turismo will be presen in North American dealerships in August 2013.

MSRP for the 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo:

528i Sedan	$50,425	550i xDrive Sedan	$67,125
528i xDrive Sedan	$52,725	ActiveHybrid 5	$62,325
535i Sedan	$56,025	535i Gran Turismo	$60,925
535i xDrive Sedan	$58,325	535i xDrive Gran Turismo	$63,225
535d Sedan	$57,525	550i Gran Turismo	$68,825
535d xDrive Sedan	$59,825	550i xDrive Gran Turismo	$71,125
550i Sedan	$64,825

Source: BMW

May 20, 2013

Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept Unveiled [VIDEO]

In order to celebrate its centenary Aston Martin is unveiling the exceptional Aston Martin CC100 Speedster Concept. The model looks both to the past and the future. Back in the days the DBR1 was brand’s greatest sporting triumph on the track. Of course, the future is “teased” by the glimpses of potential future design direction.

The concept is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 engine. It competed yesterday at the famous Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring race, driven by Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez. In fact the speedster represents company’s fantastic sporting heritage, exceptional design capability, superb engineering know-how and adventurous spirit.

But this car is even more – it shows that the soul of Aston Martin, ad this is what differentiates Aston Martin from all the other car makers in the world. CC100 Speedster Concept was designed and constructed in fewer than six months. The aim was to create something that reflects the 100 years of brand’s heritage and to signal the future of the British company.

To be more precise, the car measures almost four and a half metres nose to tail, and more than two metres wide. This makes the Speedster Concept body a classic example of the almost infinitely flexible nature of Aston Martin’s trademark Vertical Horizontal engineering philosophy.

Of course, new materials were utilized throughout the construction of the body and the interior – carbon fibre can be seen prominently. In addition, the CC100 uses the latest generation AM11 naturally aspirated V12 gasoline engine that is matched with a six-speed hydraulically actuated automated sequential manual transmission.

It is controlled via steering column-mounted paddle shifts thus delivering the needed sporting changes. This makes it possible for the concept to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in little more than four seconds on its way to a top speed of 180 mph.

httpv://youtu.be/pBzTgHK9A3E

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Aston Martin

May 20, 2013

Vorsteiner Teases McLaren MP4-12C

McLaren MP4-12C is one of the iconic supercars in the automotive world today. In fact, it was a global phenomenon when it first was released on the market. It is simply impossible to even think about of adding more to this exotic machine.

Despite this fact, there are some tuning brands which accept the challenge to enhance the aggressive stance of this McLaren model and among them proudly stand Vorsteiner. The tuners have just released two teaser images of their future project.

Unfortunately, no additional information has been released so far in terms of what the enhancements in the MP4-12C will be. From what we can see, the supersports car will undoubtedly include aggressive new kit with a redesigned front and rear bumper featuring large air channeling attributes. A set of diffuser side skirts also looks to be present as well as some sort of carbon fiber add on spoiler.

The emblematic Mclaren MP4-12C is powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine that generates 625 hp (460 kW) and it is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The model accelerates effortlessly from standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 329 km/h (204 mph). In terms of efficiency, the MP4-12C achieves average 11.7 L/100km and delivers CO2 emissions of 279 g/km.

Source: SR Auto Group

May 18, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition

Kahn Land Rover Defender XS 90 Chelsea Wide Track Edition is the latest creation of the luxury tuning specialists at A. Kahn Design. The model is in special Fuji White/ Matt Pearl Grey color and is equipped with XS 90 2.2 TDCI engine.

One of the key factors in the development of this emblematic Land Rover model was the astonishing styling package. The latter brings the exceptional design language of the tuning company to a new level by commanding curvatures and firm body elements in order to ensure the vehicle is mannered for daily driving.

This means that the vehicle provides exceptional resilience and style thanks to the lightweight design and sophisticated aerodynamics of this styling package. The visual stance of the model is dominated by front and rear wide wings with integrated vents and bolt apertures.

In addition, there are also the following features that enhance the overall look of the Defender: highly coveted 1948 Defend Alloy Wheels in Satin Black (8×16 fitted with 235x85x16” tyres), xenon crosshair headlights, bonnet vents with mesh, front grille replacement including headlight surrounds, front bumper with bumper lighting, front bumper sump guard, front and rear wing mesh inserts, side vents with mesh, exhaust shields, mud flaps, Kahn oval tailgate badge and Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover. Of course, there is also included emblematic for the tuners privacy glass and Kahn twin cross hair exhaust system.

The interior of the vehicle features the iconic ‘bespoke touch’ of the British designer. In this particular case, the Defender is equipped with front sports GTB racing seats and rear folding seats, instrument binnacle in grey alcantara with red and silver stitching, centre dashboard in leather & alcantara with Harris Tweed Inserts and two tone contrast stitching, tron ring lighting, door panel inserts and trims in black quilted leather & grey alcantara with silver stitching, Churchill time clock facia insert in red, billet machined leather steering wheel, hard wearing front and rear cabin floor lights, Kahn fire extinguisher, Kahn speedo & rev counter facia in red and vented foot pedals in machined aluminium.

Source: A. Kahn Design

May 18, 2013

2014 Subaru Forester First Vehicle To Ace IIHS Safety Test [VIDEO]

2014 Subaru Forester has just received a Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) award from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). In fact, this is the first vehicle to ace every aspect of the front crash test and is the only (from 13 other vehicles) to earn an overall rating of good in the test.

Being entirely redesigned and reengineered the new Forester proved that it now can deliver improved protection for people in cases of frontal crashes. This award is first for the model so far and the brand expects to achieve more success in the future.

2014 Forester is equipped with 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged BOXER engine which produces 250 horsepower (184 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb.-ft.) of maximum torque. As an option, the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER is at hand, delivering 170 hp (125 kW) and 235 Nm (174 lb.-ft.) of peak torque. Both units are matched to a six-speed manual transmission as a standard or can be coupled with the available Lineartronic continuously variable transmissions (CVT).

In addition Subaru is the only manufacturer with 2013 IIHS Top Safety Pick for all models and the only company with IIHS Top Safety Picks for all models for four years in a row. As a matter of fact, 2014 Forester is the third Subaru to receive the TSP+ award. Right next to it stand the 2013 Subaru Legacy and the Subaru Outback.

In general, the conducted crash test proved that safety is one of brand’s major principles. The Forester is the most award winning small SUV in America and with this award Subaru have another designation for this venerable vehicle.

httpv://youtu.be/wmCZZ_Ef3Js

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Subaru

May 18, 2013

Chrysler Showing Current SRT Lineup In An Exciting Tour

For the third year in a row the SRT Tour will present the latest high performance vehicles from Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology. The brand will unleash four SRT vehicles on a cross-country journey.

The SRT Tour will be three month long and will showcase the current SRT lineup. The featured vehicles are Dodge Challenger SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8, Chrysler 300 SRT8, and the new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. In addition, there will be a special “guest” appearance by 2013 SRT Viper which will give to the public a glance of its supercar attributes.

More precisely, the Street and Racing Technology brand utilizes an excellent product development formula. The latter includes five proven hallmarks: inspiring powertrains, outstanding ride, handling and capability, unsurpassed braking system, aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors.

After the success of the last two SRT Tours, the people in the team look forward to this year’s experience. In fact, they say that are excited to travel the country and share their entire SRT lineup with the thousands of high-performance fans. They promise to everyone who are going to be present at the event to showcase the power, performance, luxury and security features offered in the SRT vehicles.

SRT Tour stops in May include locations such as Laguna Seca, Riverside in California, Cars and Coffee in Irvine, and Bill Luke Dodge in Phoenix, Arizona. A mix of unique, upscale locations will fill out the remainder of the 2013 SRT Tour events, with visits to elite car enthusiast events and premier racing facilities.

Source: Chrysler

May 18, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova