Lidia Todorova – Page 242 – Automobiles Review

Magnetic Specification Adds To Peugeot RCZ Range

Attractive Peugeot RCZ is being launched. Its name is Magnetic Limited Edition and undoubtedly will strongly seduce many fans of the French brand. It includes a wide range of standard luxury equipment and will be available in two exterior colors – black and white. In addition, the interior not only will offer high technology features but also will exude exclusivity thanks to its bespoke leather color-themed interior.

As a matter of fact, this Peugeot RCZ Magnetic adds on the equipment of the ‘Sport’ specification the following features: front and rear parking aids; interior sports kit that has soft touch leather steering wheel and short shift gear lever; Peugeot Connect Navigation (RT6) which includes Audio, CD and satellite navigation system; Peugeot Connect SOS and Assistance.

As already stated the car will be offered in two colors: Pearlescent Pearl white or Metallic Nera black paint colour. It will run on 19” ‘Sortilege’ alloy wheels in onyx matt black finish, and will be equipped with ‘Black pack’ which inludes matt black roof arches, brilliant black front grille, door mirror covers and brake callipers. There are also sports front seats in simple leather in black (on white model) or red flame (on black model).

At last, what is left to be stated is that this Peugeot limited edition model can be easily distinguished by its characteristic double-bubble roofline, aluminium roof arches and its stylish, curvaceous bodywork.

Peugeot RCZ Magnetic LE Data:

Engine version	Fuel	CO2	0-62mph	Top Speed	Economy (Combined)	Price
1.6-litre THP 156	petrol	149g/km	8.3secs	133mph	44.1mpg	£25,350
1.6-litre THP 200	petrol	155g/km	7.6secs	146mph	42.1mpg	£27,735
2.0-litre HDi 163	diesel	139g/km	8.7secs	137mph	53.2mpg	£27,185

Source: Peugeot

May 17, 2013

2014 GMC Sierra Pick-Up With Improved Aerodynamics

2014 GMC Sierra full-size pick-up truck will now offer its customers new and exclusive designe changes as well as enhanced interior quietness. The vehicle has spent more development time in a wind tunnel than any GMC pickup thus achieving the afore mentioned changes as well as better fuel economy.

The improved airflow is a result of a study how the air passes over, under and around the Sierra. The engineers utilized for this purpose the Aerodynamics Lab, which is a 750-foot-long tunnel through which a 43-foot-diameter fan powered by a DC electric motor with the equivalent of 4,500 horsepower can generate winds of up to 138 mph.

As a matter of fact, a consequence of the aerodynamic improvements is the new air dam below the 2014 Sierra’s front bumper. It reduces drag through directing the air toward the ground and away from the truck’s rough underbody. In addition, vehicle’s ducted flow path between the grille and radiator stops the air from swirling inside the truck’s front cavities.

What is more, the air is guided flawlessly around this GMC’s tailgate and the center high-mounted stop light. These elements were optimized for this purpose. Additionally, a new sealing has been added which prevents the unwanted airflow between the cab and bed.

Added noise and increased fuel consumption is a result of add-ons like bug deflectors on the hood, wider tires, aftermarket bumpers or lower tailgate. In fact, when the tailgate is in the up position then the car should be more aerodynamically efficient.

Therefore the accessories that can be used as aerodynamics-enhancers are the soft covers and fully integrated flush-mount running boards which can also help air flow smoothly down the truck’s sides and can provide a minor improvement to the truck’s drag coefficient.

Source: GMC

May 17, 2013

Aston Martin Enters 24 Hours of Nurburgring With Three Race Cars

The ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring is going to happen this weekend, where the British automotive icon Aston Martin is going to participate with three different race cars. The first one to enter is the international championship-winning V12 Vantage GT3, the second one – Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S and the last – the close-to-production specification V12 Vantage.

At the N24 the brand is going to celebrate its anniversary by entering a front-running GT3 car crewed by top professional drivers, a world-first engineering technology project and a near-standard V12 Vantage. In addition, a stunning 100-car parade of Aston Martins will entertain the public through around the length of the legendary 22km-long circuit.

To go further into details, the unique Hybrid Hydrogen Rapide S was announced a month ago The car is based on Aston Martin’s new four-door, four-seat sports GT. In fact, the model that is going to compete in the Nürburgring is the first Hybrid Hydrogen-powered car to enter in an international racing event.

The model was created with the help of the hydrogen experts at Alset Global. The specialists at both brands have equipped the prototype with twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine. In addition, this Aston Martin vehicle is able to run on pure gasoline, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both. Aston-Martin V12 Vantage is the third car that is going to enter the race. It is also a close-to-production vehicle which was specifically modified to meet the N24 regulations.

At last, the brand will compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours for the eighth successive year with the goal of achieving first place.

Source: Aston Martin

May 17, 2013

Mitsubishi To Enter 2013 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

Mitsubishi jut announced that it is going to take part in the 2013 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The event will be held from 25th of June until the 30th of June. The company will compete with their new Mitsubishi MiEV Evolution II All-Electric Prototype.

Mitsubishi’s team will consist of two of the new all-electric four-wheel drive (4WD) racecars and the goal pf course is to achieve the first place in the race. In addition, the company is going to gather the technical information from the performance of the car in the event in order to bring some optimization in future production vehicles.

The updated i-MiEV Evolution II utilizes high-capacity battery and high-output motors. It is also equipped with S-AWC (Super All-Wheel Control) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to a two-front/two-rear four-motor drivetrain. The result is enhanced handling and control. What is more, the body is designed in such way that it minimizes the weight and brings about better aerodynamics.

The all-electric race car is equipped with wide range of advanced technologies. In fact, they are now improved thanks to the technical data gathered from the last year’s i-MiEV Evolution. The vehicle is packed into a specially-designed lightweight and aerodynamic body, including a high-capacity battery and four high-output electric motors. The enhanced performance is further supported by pipe-frame chassis and a carbon cowl. The latter reduces additionally the weight and improves the aerodynamics.

The superior motive performance, handling, and stability of the MiEV Evolution II, is achieved through achieving a low centre of gravity due to the battery being installed under the floor. Here also contributes the two-front/two-rear four-motor 4WD drivetrain with MMC’s S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control system, the AYC (Active Yaw Control) that optimally controls the yaw moment to generate high cornering capability, ASC (Active Stability Control) that enhances stability by automatically controlling brake force to one or more wheels and motive power, and the ABS (Anti-lock brake system).

The first MiEV Evolution II will be driven by two-time Dakar Rally overall champion Hiroshi Masuoka, while the second – by Greg Tracy, who is six-time Pikes Peak motorcycle champion.

Mitsubishi MiEV Evolution II All-Electric Prototype Data:

Length x Width x Height (mm)		4,870 x 1,900 x 1,390
Occupants		1
Drivetrain		4WD
Motors (Made by Meidensha)	Configuration	4 (2 front, 2 rear)
	Maximum Output (kW)	400 (100kW x 4 motors)
Battery (Made by LEJ)	Maximum Capacity (kWh)	50
Chassis		Specially-designed pipe frame
Cowl		Carbon
Tyres (made by Dunlop)		260/660-18

Source: Mitsubishi

May 17, 2013

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Fully Revealed!

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been finally fully revealed showing its incomparable characteristics, exceptional attributes and full capability of luxury and style. The brand relies here in three engineering priorities “Intelligent Drive”, “Efficient Technology” and “Essence of Luxury”. This simply means that the 2014 S-Class extends the boundaries of technology on many levels.

Perfection to the last detail and the pursuit of the bet results in motto – “The Essence of Luxury” seen very prominently thorough the interior. There, new ideas are fully expressed whether it is the seats or the air conditioning, the controls or the design, the infotainment or the comfort and safety in the rear.

The safety features included in this new Mercedes-Benz refer to the motto “Intelligent Drive”. A wide range of new systems makes the new S-Class even more comfortable and safer. In addition, the model-Class offer great efficiency and improved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category to 64.2 mpg, for instance.

In terms of exterior design some changes have been applied. They start with the radiator grille which is now larger and continue with the more upright and distinctly three-dimensional design of the body. With its long bonnet, the flowing, domed roof line and the gently slanting rear end, the S-Class looks prestigious, sporty and powerful.

The slightly slanting form of the model delivers also aerodynamic advantages. In addition, the highlights are in new-style: the tail lights are completely encased by the car body. LED technology is included, however in a single light bulb.

LED lights are included in the interior as well delivering more comfort to it. Visibility is enhanced by two assistance systems that have undergone some key improvements – Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus.

More importantly, the drive system offers class-leading efficiency in every output category. The 2014 S-Class line-up includes two hybrid versions, a petrol model and a diesel variant: S 400 HYBRID, S 500, S 350 BlueTEC and S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, respectively.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class model data:

Model	S 400 HYBRID	S 500	S 350 BlueTEC	S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID
Number of cylinders/arrangement	6/V	8/V	6/V	4/in-line
Displacement (cc)	3498	4663	2987	2143
Rated output (hp at rpm)	306 at 6500	455 at 5250	258 at 3600	204 at 4200
Rated output of electric motor (kW)	20	–	–	20
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	370 at 3500-5250	700 at 1800-3500	620 at 1600-2400	500 at 1600-1800
Rated torque of electric motor (Nm)	250	–	–	250
Combined fuel consumption from (mpg)	44.8	32.7	51.3/50.41	64.2
Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km)	147	199	146/1481	115
Efficiency class	A	D	A	A+
Acceleration 0-62 mph (s)	6.8	4.8	6.8	7.6
Top speed (mph)	155	155	155	148

Moreover, the new S-Class is the first vehicle on Earth which will be able to detect bumps on the road ahead thanks to the ROAD SURFACE SCAN Technology. It detects unevenness by means of the stereo camera. Then the MAGIC BODY CONTROL sets up the suspension and manages the situation. Standard equipment for the new S-Class includes the continuously operating Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC.

To go further into details, the body of the car offers maximum stability and high-quality lightweight design, high level of crash safety, excellent rigidity and extremely low levels of noise and vibration. The bodyshell is made of a third-generation aluminium hybrid which results in lightweight construction.

In terms of safety and security, there steps in the extended PRE-SAFE® protection system.

It helps prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in front in city traffic and in dangerous situations in general. In addition, there are new functions that rely on sensor system, comprising a new stereo camera together with multistage radar sensors.

To sum up, the list of new assistance systems includes the following: DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, Brake Assist System BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, Night View Assist Plus and Attention Assist.

2014 Mercedes-Benz S 350 BlueTEC:

Engine

Number of cylinders/arrangement		V6, four valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	2987
Bore x stroke	mm	83.0 x 92.0
Rated output	kW/hp	190/258 at 3600 rpm
Rated torque	Nm	620 at 1600-2400 rpm
Compression ratio		15.5:1
Mixture formation		High-pressure fuel injection with common-rail technology, VNT turbocharger, EDC

Power transmission

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission

Gear ratios

Final drive

1st gear

2nd gear

3rd gear

4th gear

5th gear

6th gear

7th gear

Reverse 1

Reverse 2

2.47

4.38

2.86

1.92

1.37

1.00

0.82

0.73

3.42

2.23

Chassis and suspension

Front axle	Four-link front suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Rear axle	Multi-link independent rear suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Braking system	Internally ventilated disc brakes at front, internally ventilated disc brakes at rear, electric parking brake, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering	Electromechanical rack-and-pinion power steering
Wheels	8.0 J x 17
Tyres	245/55 R 17 W

Dimensions and weights

Wheelbase	mm	3165
Track, front/rear	mm	1624/1637
Length (overall)	mm	5246
Width (overall)	mm	1899
Height (overall)	mm	1491
Turning circle	m	12.3
Boot capacity max.*	l	510
Kerb weight acc. to EC	kg	1975
Payload	kg	715
Permissible gross vehicle weight	kg	2630
Tank capacity/of which reserve	l	70/8

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0-100 km/h	s	6.8
Top speed	km/h	250
Combined fuel consumption	l/100 km	5.6-5.0
CO2 emissions	g/km	158-148

2014 Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID

Engine

Number of cylinders/arrangement		V6, four valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	3498
Bore x stroke	mm	92.9 x 86.0
Rated output	kW/hp	225/306 at 6500 rpm
Rated output electric motor	kW	20
Rated torque Rated torque electric motor	Nm Nm	370 at 3500-5250 rpm 250
Compression ratio		12.0:1
Mixture formation		High-pressure injection

Power transmission

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission

Gear ratios

Final drive

1st gear

2nd gear

3rd gear

4th gear

5th gear

6th gear

7th gear

Reverse 1

Reverse 2

3.07

4.38

2.86

1.92

1.37

1.00

0.82

0.73

3.42

2.23

Chassis and suspension

Front axle	Four-link front suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Rear axle	Multi-link independent rear suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Braking system	Internally ventilated disc brakes at front, internally ventilated disc brakes at rear, electric parking brake, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering	Electromechanical rack-and-pinion power steering
Wheels	8.0 J x 17
Tyres	245/55 R 17 W

Dimensions and weights

Wheelbase	mm	3165
Track, front/rear	mm	1624/1637
Length (overall)	mm	5246
Width (overall)	mm	1899
Height (overall)	mm	1491
Turning circle	m	12.3
Boot capacity max.*	l	510
Kerb weight acc. to EC	kg	1945
Payload	kg	685
Permissible gross vehicle weight	kg	2630
Tank capacity/of which reserve	l	70/8

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0-100 km/h	s	6.8
Top speed	km/h	250
Comb. fuel consumption	l/100 km	6.8-6.3
CO2 emissions	g/km	159-147

2014 Mercedes-Benz S 500

Engine

Number of cylinders/arrangement		V8, four valves per cylinder
Displacement	cc	4663
Bore x stroke	mm	83.0 x 92.0
Rated output	kW/hp	335/455 at 5250-5500 rpm
Rated torque	Nm	700 at 1800-3500 rpm
Compression ratio		10.5:1
Mixture formation		High-pressure injection, two turbochargers, EDC

Power transmission

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission

Gear ratios

Final drive

1st gear

2nd gear

3rd gear

4th gear

5th gear

6th gear

7th gear

Reverse 1

Reverse 2

2.65

4.38

2.86

1.92

1.37

1.00

0.82

0.73

3.42

2.23

Chassis and suspension

Front axle	Four-link front suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Rear axle	Multi-link independent rear suspension with air springs, single-tube shock absorbers, anti-roll bar
Braking system	Internally ventilated disc brakes at front, internally ventilated disc brakes at rear, electric parking brake, ABS, Brake Assist, ESP®
Steering	Electromechanical rack-and-pinion power steering
Wheels	8.0 J x 18
Tyres	245/50 R 18 W

Dimensions and weights

Wheelbase	mm	3165
Track, front/rear	mm	1624/1637
Length (overall)	mm	5246
Width (overall)	mm	1899
Height (overall)	mm	1491
Turning circle	m	12.3
Boot capacity max.*	l	530
Kerb weight acc. to EC	kg	2015
Payload	kg	715
Permissible gross vehicle weight	kg	2690
Tank capacity/of which reserve	l	78/8

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0-100 km/h	s	4.8
Top speed	km/h	250
Combined fuel consumption	l/100 km	9.1-8.6
CO2 emissions	g/km	213-199

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pricing:

Diesel		Euros
S 350 BlueTEC	Short wheelbase	79,789.50
S 350 BlueTEC	Long wheelbase	85,323.00
Petrol
S 400 HYBRID	Short wheelbase	85,204.00
S 400 HYBRID	Long wheelbase	91,094.50
S 500	Short wheelbase	104,601.00
S 500	Long wheelbase	107,635.50

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 16, 2013

M Sport Edition Package Available For BMW 6 Series

BMW 6 Series M Sport Edition comes to offer more dynamism and exclusivity to the 6 Series model line-up. Of course, the M Sport edition package can be combined with all the models and engine variants of the BMW 6 Series range.

To be more precise, the M Sport edition models will add to the standard equipment of the cars model-specific M aerodynamics package, 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, LED foglamps, the BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line, black-painted brake callipers, exhaust tail pipes in dark chrome, Adaptive LED Headlights.

In terms of interior, the pleasure of the driving experience will be further enhanced via M leather steering wheel, M door sill finishers and sports seats in Alcantara/leather nappa, coupled with other high-grade applications.

The latter feature BMW Head-Up Display, the multifunction instrument display, a dashboard covered in exclusive nappa leather, and the Professional Hi-Fi system with 12 speakers, ConnectedDrive Navigation package. Additionally, the models equipped with the package will include Park Distance Control and a rear-view camera, and a ski bag for the through-loading facility from the luggage compartment to the rear of the cabin.

Some of the models in the range, such as 650i and 650 xi M Sport Edition, will come equipped with the following technologies: Active Driving Assistance / Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Side and Top View Cameras and Speed Limit Info.

For all of the models there will be an option to be in striking Sakhir Orange metallic M paintwork. Another option is the featured interior upholstery named BMW Individual leather Merino fine grain Opal white with contrast seams in Sakhir Orange. Of course, the special treatment is offered with Comfort Seats that deliver even more luxury.

The starting price of BMW 6 Series M Sport Edition begins at $80 625.

Source: BMW

May 16, 2013

2013 Dodge Dart Special Edition Package Adds More Exclusiveness

2013 Dodge Dart Special Edition has jut been released and will offer two new packages, available on SXT and Limited models. They will combine features and content exclusive to the segment.

A lot of innovative technologies will be included in these special edition Dodge models as well as safety features and clever functionality. In other words, high priority comes for the personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive characteristics of the models.

In particular, the Dodge Dart SXT Special Edition includes all the standard equipment on the SXT model. It will be powered by the 2.0-liter 160 horsepower (118 kW) Tigershark 4-cylinder engine. The model includes power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, power mirrors, air conditioning, 60/40 split folding rear seat, four-wheel independent suspension, 17-inch aluminum wheels, 10 standard airbags.

To the afore mentioned characteristics, the Special Edition package gives the vehicle black crosshair grille, dark tinted projector headlamps, projector fog lamps, LED racetrack tail lamps, integrated dual exhaust, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, front-passenger seat in-seat storage, remote start (with automatic transmission), USB port, rearview auto-dimming mirror with microphone, overhead console with sunglass holder, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet, trip computer, vehicle information center, tire pressure monitoring display, active grille shutters and underbody aerodynamic treatment.

On the other hand, to the latter package can be added the “Rallye Appearance Group” one. It features one-of-a-kind black front fascia, Rallye badge and class-exclusive 17-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels.

To go further into details, the 2013 Dodge Dart Limited offers to its customers a wide range of standard equipment that adds to the standard one of the SXT model the following: unique bright grille, bright door handles, projector fog lamps, power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps, 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen, Floating Island Bezel, ParkView rear back-up camera, 7-inch full-color TFT (Thin Film Transistor) LED reconfigurable instrument cluster display.

Also there are present the premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio control and speed control, accent stitching on the instrument panel, power 10-way driver’s seat, including power lumbar support, driver and front passenger seatback pockets, overhead console with sunglass holder, front passenger in-seat storage, illuminated front cupholders, illuminated vanity mirrors, temperature and compass gauge, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console, speed sensitive power locks, power front windows with one-touch up/down, ambient LED interior lighting, automatic headlamps, active grille shutters, underbody aerodynamic treatment, tire pressure monitoring display and Limited badge.

What is important to mention is that the Dart Limited Special Edition package will contribute to the exclusiveness of this car by adding even more premium luxury features such as premium Nappa Leather seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power sunroof, racetrack LED taillamps, Sirius/XM Satellite radio, Sirius/XM Travel Link, Uconnect 8.4-inch touch screen with Garmin navigation, dual-zone automatic temperature control, remote start and universal garage door opener.

The starting price of the 2013 Dodge Dart Special Edition is estimated at $18 590.

Source: Dodge

May 16, 2013

Mercedes-Benz Reveals The Interior of 2014 S-Class

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been finally and officially revealed today. Two weeks ago a leak image has been introduced and showed the exclusivity of the model. Now, the pictures released from the luxury brand are mainly of the interior which offers more than ecstatic experience.

A number of new features specifically related to comfort and safety are to be found in the new S-Class. The interior design is the embodiment of a classic, serene and yet ultra-modern luxury sedan. It combines driving pleasure, spatial and operating comfort at the highest level.

The materials used here are wood trim, which is to be found on the dashboard and centre console, and metallised switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three colour shades In addition, the design and exclusivity of the seats, door panels and all controls are to the same, high standard as the front.

The traditional instrument cluster is replaced by a radically redesigned display that extends in front of the driver. It offers numerous of functions and appears to be free-floating. Additionally, two high-resolution colour displays serve as the new information centre in the S-Class.

On the other hand, Mercedes-Benz has raised the seating and climatic comfort in the S-Class to a new level. There is a choice of five different rear seat variants including an Executive seat with a backrest angle. In fact the seating and climatic control is additionally enhanced via a wide range of features such as massage function with 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest.

For the first time the brand has included reversing fans in order to active the seat ventilation system. In this way, the rotational direction of the fan, and the airflow within the seat structure, can be reversed. Another world first is the optional heated armrests and door centre panels in the front and rear. There is also optional heated steering wheel and particularly fast-responding seat heating Plus.

What is ore to be highlight are three new features which enhance the safety in the rear: in the belt buckle feeder an electric motor automatically raises and lowers the buckle. The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap that minimizes the risk of injury to passengers in the rear in a head-on collision by lessening the strain on the ribcage. The reclining seat is fitted with a cushionbag as standard. This prevents the occupant from sliding under the belt in the event of an accident.

Another world first is the “active perfuming system” included here which is part of the AIR BALANCE package. The same package includes an enhanced filtering of the outside air fed into the vehicle interior by the climate control system, and of the air recirculating in the interior in air recirculation mode.

The new 2014 S-Class will offer to its occupants unique multimedia experience. The multimedia generation includes intuitive operation. The multi-user system allows independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any seat. For instance, the driver control function, which is able to route any audio or video source to the display and headset of any passenger.

In addition, the S-Class is the first sedan car to include Frontbass system as standard. What’s left to be mentioned is the centrepiece of the new COMAND Online system which is the Intel Atom. The latter is a processor whose performance fully equals that of components in the latest laptops.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

May 15, 2013

2013 Porsche 918 Spyder Prototype Enters Production

2013 Porsche 918 Spyder is on the road is already planned for production which will start at the end of September this year. The first deliveries are to be in the end of the year. In fact, the camouflage of the vehicle harks back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars.

The focus here is put on the interplay between the highly sophisticated individual drive components. Furthermore, the models will include the powerful combination between a combustion engine and two independent electric motors.

One of the latter is positioned on the front axle and one in the drive line, acting on the rear wheels. In addition, there was also done a development of the software especially because of the engines. The result is extreme driving fun and one-of-a kind combination of minimal fuel consumption and maximum performance.

2013 Porsche 918 Spyder Prototype is designed as a plug-in hybrid car because of the mixture of high-performance combustion engine and cutting-edge electric motors. The extraordinary performance delivered is estimated at 770 hp (566 kW), while the fuel economy is around three litres per 100 kilometres.

Furthermore, this Porsche’s construction features also full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting “top pipes” exhaust system. In fact, the 918 Spyder is offering a glimpse of what Porsche Intelligent Performance may be capable of in future.

Source: Porsche

May 15, 2013

TEASED: BMW Gran Lusso Coupé Pininfarina Concept

At the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013 has happened something exceptional. BMW Group announced their collaboration with Pininfarina marked with the concept car BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, which will have its official reveal on 24th of May.

This car is the embodiment of sheer elegance. The design of the car is fresh and innovative and exudes pure creative impulses. Pininfarina design team contributed to the professionals at BMW with new ideas that eventually lead to a new automotive personality.

In fact, this car is typically a BMW but bears the refined imprint of Pininfarina – in short it offers elegance and exclusivity. What we are to expect of this model is the Italian design finesse. In fact, it offers generous surface design and taut contours that further highlight the elegance of the vehicle’s body.

On the other hand, BMW Gran Lusso Coupé Pininfarina Concept has the emblematic BMW proportions. This means that it offers a long wheelbase, stretched bonnet, short overhangs and a set-back greenhouse with smoothly sloping roofline. The end effect is that the aggressive stance and the authoritative dynamics of the car are further accentuated.

More importantly, both brands announced that they are going to equip this concept model with a V12 engine. Additional details will be announced near the official launch in only les than ten days. On the other hand, the interior of the car offers a blend of contemporary elegance and luxury, comfort and sportiness. The fluid geometry of the cabin and the classical BMW driver focus are lent a thoroughly new touch through the influence of Pininfarina.

Source: Pininfarina

May 15, 2013

North American Debut For 2014 Kia Cadenza K7

2014 Kia Cadenza K7 premium sedan has just been unveiled and it is the most technologically-advanced vehicle the brand has ever produced for the North American market. The model adds to the lineup of Kia vehicles with exclusive list of premium standard and optional equipment. 2014 Cadenza is expected to be at showrooms in the second quarter of this year.

The new model has a distinctive front fascia and swept C-pillars. Under its hood hides company’s most powerful V6 unit that delivers excitement during driving. The interior of the car includes premium features and is perfect for five persons where they can share the luxurious feel.

To go further into details, some of the standard features included in the Cadenza are the following: advanced navigation system with SiriusXM Traffic™ and UVO eServices, high resolution 8-inch touch screen, standard back-up camera and warning system, premium 550-watt Infinity® 12-speaker audio system, standard leather seat trim, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear seat ventilation, Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat and Bluetooth® wireless technology.

In addition, there are also two optional packages that are currently being offered: The Premium Package and the Technology Package. The first one features full-length panoramic sunroof with power retractable sunshade, HID headlamps with adaptive front lighting system (AFLS), 7-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster, premium Nappa leather seats, a memory enabled 12-way ventilated driver’s seat with seat cushion extension for unsurpassed comfort, heated front and rear outboard seats, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping steering column power rear sunshade.

The Technology Package on the other hand adds sleek 19-inch alloy wheels, electric parking brake and Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), water repellant hydrophobic windshield, radar-based Blind Spot Detection system (BSD), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS).

The striking design of the new Kia Cadenza includes aggressive “Tiger Nose” front fascia, quad headlights flanking the grille. The lower fascia is wide and features chrome trim accents around the fog lights and grille. Of course, there are also included LED positioning lights and optional HID headlights.

The car has a long hood with is sculpted in such way that it meets the swept-back windshield. Classic chrome accents can be also seen at the lower portions of the doors as well as the rear fascia. This new Kia model runs on 19-inch alloy wheels when offered with the Technology Package.

Stepping further to the rear of the car, it includes standard LED taillights which are designed to cut across a large portion of the vehicle. The effect is that the vehicle appears to have a broader stance. The twin oval tail pipes accentuate the Cadenza’s sporty and elegant design.

How about the interior? Of course, the interior received a luxury treatment. First to be mentioned are the soft leather upholstery and tasteful accents of wood and chrome. Secondly, there are featured an ambient lighting and horizontally positioned switch gear.

An analog clock positioned between the center stack buttons leads to a more classical design approach. In addition, the center console is angled toward the driver for optimized control, and the large seven-inch high-resolution TFT LCD screen. As a standard there are also included Bluetooth, wood-trim door inserts, one-touch automatic up/down power front windows and power-folding heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators.

More importantly however is what is positioned under the hood of this premium vehicle. Namely – Kia’s most powerful V6 engine. The smooth-revving 3.3-liter uses gasoline direct injection (GDI) technology that enhances the performance and at the same time offers fantastic fuel efficiency.

The GDI powerplant generates 293 horsepower (215 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 345 Nm (255 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5,200 rpm. The advanced all-aluminum engine includes dual continuously variable valve timing for enhanced fuel economy and performance, a maintenance-free timing chain, a three-step variable induction system for enhanced torque, and is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline.

This amount of power is transferred to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission that features a Sportmatic manual shift mode and paddle shifters flanking the leather and wood-wrapped steering wheel.

As a standard the Cadenza comes with sport-tuned fully independent suspension with a McPherson strut setup in front and a multilink rear design. In addition, it rides on standard 245/45R-18 tires. The afore mentioned 245/40R-19 tires are included with the Technology Package.

Source: Kia

May 15, 2013

Manta Porsche 996 Turbo Transformed by OK-Chiptuning

The professionals at OK-Chiptuning decided to do something different on a Porsche 996 Turbo. First thing that grabs the attention here are the exterior colors that are in the color of the rainbow and impresses with its joyful character.

However, what is more important here is that the car has received a boost in power and now has an output of 650 hp (478 kW) and 750 Nm (554 lb-ft) maximum torque. This was achieved thanks to a charge air cooler that was installed in both K24-Turbolader and GT2-RS-. Thanks to it, it is achieved more intense intake for turbochargers. Also Sachs-Performance-clutch and an exhaust system with continuous 70-millimeter-tubes contribute to the seamless performance of this Porsche.

Furthermore, there is an AG-rim finishing for powder coating of the rims. The 19 inch rims are matched with an appropriate set of tyres in 235/35-19 or 305/30-19. In addition, in order to enhance the driving dynamics, KW-Coilover-Suspension of the version 3 is installed. There was also added a rear spoiler which was delivered by TechArt.

At last, in order to bring about the “crazy” exterior effect, OK-Chiptuning collaborated with Cam Shaft Premium Wrapping. The result is that the Manta-Porsche received a three-colour foliation.

Source: Miranda Media

May 14, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova