Author: Lidia Todorova

Upcoming 2014 Range Rover To Be Offered With New Engine

2013 Range Rover was launched in the summer of 2012 and did a major success. Now Land Rover is opening orders for the new 2014 Range Rover, which will be available in showrooms this summer.

Furthermore the upcoming 2014 Range Rover will be offered with a new and more efficient 340 hp (250 kW) supercharged V6 engine. This unit of course delivers exceptional performance and refinement with enhanced fuel efficiency.

The supercharged V6 engine will be available alongside the 510 hp (375 kW) supercharged V8. Both units will be matched with an eight-speed ZF 8HP70 automatic transmission. Thanks to the new engine however, the new Range Rover will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.1 seconds.

The peak output of 340 hp is at 6,500rpm, producing maximum torque between 3,500 and 5,000rpm. In particular, the engine’s accessory drive is waterproofed, as are the alternator, air conditioning compressor, and starter motor.

What is more, the four-cam V6 shares include a lightweight die-cast aluminum block with cross-bolted main bearing caps. They offer more strength. The valves here are managed by a dual independent variable cam timing system (DIVCT). The latter is activated by the positive and negative torques produced by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves.

In addition, the fuel consumption is enhanced, thanks to Land Rover’s Intelligent Stop/Start. In fact, it reduces engine idling under certain conditions which saves fuel and decreases emissions. Another interesting technology featured here is the Spray-guided direct injection (SGDI).

SGDI offers precise quantities of fuel directly into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 150 bar (2175 PSI). This creates more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion. Additionally, a brand new Bosch engine management system manages all functions of the unit.

Source: Land Rover

McLaren P1 To Deliver The Staggering 903 Horsepower

It is official! McLaren P1 is going to deliver the staggering 903 horsepower! The model will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants: a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and a highly effective electric motor.

Both will offer a combined output of 903 hp (664 kW) and a maximum torque figure of 900Nm (664 lb-ft), ensuring instantaneous throttle response through the rev range, more akin to a naturally aspirated engine.

Furthermore, the emissions here are rated to be less than 200g/km on the combined cycle and are reduced to zero in full electric drive mode. On the other hand the Formula 1-derived DRS and IPAS technologies offer enhancement in straight-line speed and an instant boost of power.

But to go into details, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine in P1 is a new version of the familiar M838T unit. This engine block has a unique casting in order to feature the electric motor.

Here, the petrol engine produces 727 hp (535 kW) at 7,500rpm, and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque from 4,000rpm, while the lightweight electric motor produces 76 bhp (130 kW) and a maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft).

What is more, in this McLaren model is featured also a “boost” system called IPAS which provides up to 179 hp instantly. The instant response of the electric motor provides a sharper throttle response more associated with a normally aspirated engine, and the significantly enhanced air-charging system enables the McLaren P1 to have more top-end power.

The electric motor is mounted directly onto the engine. The power of both units is channeled through the dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox to drive the rear wheels. Another advantage here is that the e-motor can provide faster upshifts through the application of instant negative torque at the point of shift, making the engine revs drop as quickly and efficiently as possible to the required engine speed for the upshift.

What also has been revealed for the P1 is that it can be driven in a variety of modes, powered by the engine and electric motor together, or solely by the electric motor. Of course, the maximum power is delivered when both powerplants are utilized together together.

However, even in E-mode the performance is strong enough. E-mode is the most economical mode available with zero tailpipe emissions, in which the vehicle can travel more than 10 km with electric-only power. When the battery is empty, the petrol engine will automatically start to maintain drive and charge the battery.

Additional technology highlights featured in this new McLaren model are the DRS (Drag Reduction System) and IPAS (Instant Power Assist System)., which enhance the power available via the petrol engine and electric motor.

The first system is a technology similar to that employed on Formula 1 cars. Speed is increased by reducing the amount of drag on the rear wing and, where the MP4-28 has a moveable flap on the rear wing, the McLaren P1™ has a wing that reduces in angle to lower drag by 23%. The system immediately deactivates when the button is released, or if the driver touches the brake pedal.

The other system – IPAS, is designed in order to offer power rapidly for high performance acceleration, and provides 179 hp of instant additional power. In addition, in this system the power delivery was prioritized over energy storage, through a groundbreaking, lightweight battery pack, which offers greater power density.

The latter has been achieved through high power cells, low pack weight and an innovative cooling system all working together. The battery weighs only 96kg, and is mounted onto the underbody of the high-strength Formula 1-grade carbon fibre MonoCage chassis. The battery can be charged via the engine or via a plug-in charger that can recharge it from empty in only two hours.

Additional details for the McLaren P1 will be released in the coming weeks before its official world debut in Geneva next month.

Source: McLaren

MINI Clubman Bond Street To Be Revealed In Geneva

MINI Clubman Bond Street is set to debut at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show being generously equipped and including exquisitely details. In addition at the Show, MINI will also welcome the arrival of MINI John Cooper Works Paceman, MINI Hyde Park.

The first thing that has to be mentioned about the Clubman Bond Street is that is tailor-made. Exclusive design and equipment features deliver the premium quality of the typical MINI-style. Its Midnight Black metallic paintwork matches perfectly the Cool Champagne contrast color for the roof, exterior mirror caps, lower sections of the C-pillars and bonnet stripes to offer dynamically flowing body lines and extended wheelbase.

In addition the interior color is also striking, and complements perfectly the exclusively designed sports seats and a leather-covered instrument panel. Additional details around the new MINI Clubman Bond Street will be revealed at its debbut.

Next to the new model, the visitors of Geneva Motor Show will also see the MINI Hyde Park available in either MINI or MINI Clubman form. It is now being offered in combination of Pepper White exterior paintwork and the new contrast color Cool Champagne.

The other star at MINI’s stand is the MINI Highgate Convertible, which is a four-seater soft-top vehicle that embodies an aura of exclusivity and undeniable individuality. What is more, there also will be the ultra-sporty MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.

This one has an imposing figure with its powerfully formed front end, the elegantly sporty, stretched lines of the flanks, the coupé-style roof swooping downwards towards the rear, and a broad tail end.

The standard aerodynamic kit features lowered sports suspension and 18-inch light-alloy wheels in Twin Spoke Black Burnished Design. And in addition what propels this model is the four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control that generates 208 hp (153 kW). The unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic with Steptronic and steering wheel paddles is available as an option.

What is more the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman is kitted out as standard with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system. The latter allows the power of the turbocharged engine to lay on extreme driving fun both on the road and over rough terrain.

Source: MINI

Audi RS Q3 SUV With World Debut At Geneva Motor Show

Audi RS Q3 will be one of the main stars at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. In addition, it will be the first ever Audi SUV to be handed over to the specialists at quattro GmbH for full, no-holds-barred RS transformation.

At the core of this RS pioneer is the 2.5-litre TFSI engine mated to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. It has a 2,480 cc of engine displacement thanks to which the SUV generates 310 hp (228 kW) peak at between 5,200 and 6,700 rpm, and maximum torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,200 rpm .

This means that the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in only 5.5 seconds. The top speed here is electronically limited to 155mph. The five-cylinder engine is also complemented by a standard start-stop system which contributes to fuel economy. In fact Audi RS Q3 has up to 32.1mpg combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 206 g/km.

As a standard here comes the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system. It can influence the flap control for the exhaust system and the accelerator characteristic. It also offers auto, comfort and dynamic modes.

What is more the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is also featured, in this case the version based on an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch positioned on the rear axle. The system provides swift and proportionate distribution of torque between the front and rear axles for optimum power management in all weathers.

In addition, there is a specially tailored electronic stabilisation control (ESC). An electromechanical parking brake and hill hold assist are also standard.

What is also very impressive about the RS Q3 is the RS-specific body detailing, including a high-gloss black honeycomb front grille and RS bumpers, the front treatment including a quattro emblem in the air intake and the rear a distinctive diffuser and large elliptical tailpipes.

Furthermore, a roof spoiler, roof rails in matt aluminium and special door sill plates and door trim strips also add to the impressive visual stance. This Audi model has a 4,410 mm length, and it weigh circa 1,730 kg.

The RS accents can also be seen inside the car. The instrument cluster has grey gauges with white scales and red needles. Contrasting stitching in rock grey trims the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with its flat bottom as well as the gear selector lever.

Black headlining is apparent on all standard models, but there is lunar silver headlining as an option. The contrast is made by the pedals and foot support which are finished in bright aluminium.

Next, the luggage area has a base capacity of 356 litres. It can be enhanced up to 1,261 litres by folding down the split rear seat backs.

RS Q3 comes equipped with wide range of innovative technologies: navigation system, MMI Navigation plus, BOSE surround sound system driving 14 loudspeakers, Audi connect that brings the Internet to the car. Highly advanced driver assistance systems can also be incorporated.

Audi RS Q3 SUV will make its world first appearance next month at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Audi

Promiz Customs Transforms Infiniti FX35

Promiz Customs Infiniti FX35 is a project of the designer Nobert Gold. He visually created this special transformation for Promiz Customs which makes the fourth project he has done for them.

The tuning is on the Infiniti FX35 model and is going to equip it with unique bodykit modifications featuring the hood, the bumpers and the grill. The wheels – Vossen CV3 are to be bigger than the original ones in sizes 22’’.

The original Infiniti model has RWD, and a five speed automatic transmission matched with a 3.5-liter V6 unit under the hood. The latter generates 390 (287 kW) horsepower.

Source: Promiz Customs

Spyker B6 Concept Car Debuts In Geneva [TEASER]

The flowing lines of the Spyker B6 Concept Car has just been unveiled with a teaser image. The brand’s global resurgence with this concept vehicle will happen of course at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show on 5th of March.

More details are promised to be announced near the reveal date, because the Dutch sports car maker Spyker is keeping them in secret. However it is rumored that the new model will be priced under $300 000 and will have as a potential target the customers of Porsche 911.

In addition from the image we can conclude that it will be probably a coupe with elegant lines, will have short hood and pronounced wheel arches. And how about a hybrid or an electric motor placed under the hood?

Source: Spyker

2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Revealed [VIDEO]

2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur has just been officially revealed after it has been teased two weeks ago. The new luxury performance sedan delivers sculpted design and state-of-the-art technology. This is Bentley’s most powerful four-door model ever created and it will make its word debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5th March.

The design of the new Flying Spur combines traditional Bentley styling cues with a sporting stance and contemporary details. Sharp feature lines complement muscular rear haunches, while LED day-time running lights, dipped headlights and taillights characterise the front and rear profiles.

The interior of course is more than luxurious and in addition the cabin is spacious and includes advanced acoustic and electronic technologies in exquisite hand-crafted leather hides and wood veneers. The occupants will enjoy connectivity including Wi-Fi, a Rear Seat Entertainment suite and a new hand-held Touch Screen Remote which allows rear-cabin occupants to control an extensive range of features.

Furthermore, for the acoustic experience inside is outstanding thanks to the eight-channel, eight-speaker audio system with Balanced Mode Radiators.

2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur hides under its hood a 6.0-litre, twin turbo W12 engine, coupled to a ZF eight-speed transmission. It generates 625 hp (460 kW) and 800 Nm (580 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it the most powerful model in brand’s history.

The acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in only 4.3 seconds on the way to the top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h). The power is delivered to the road via all-wheel drive with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split for a sure-footed, engaging drive in all road and weather conditions.

To go further into details about the exterior of this new Bentley model, the front fenders include a striking new wing vent complete with an elegant Bentley “B” motif. From here, an additional feature line creates a sharply defined edge running from the front wheel all the way to the rear bumper.

A more upright chrome grille sits between the pairs of LED headlamps. At the rear one can see a longer and lower boot lid and horizontal single ellipse LED tail lamps combine with a new interpretation of the Bentley “Horse Shoe” feature line.

As a matter of fact, the interior of the new Flying Spur includes 600 new parts, with only the sun visors, grab handles, armrests and some of the front console and controls carried over from the previous generation. The model is available in both four- and five-seat configurations, and includes redesigned front and rear seats trimmed in natural premium-quality leather.

The interior designers have applied the finest wood veneers to finish the cabin of the new Flying Spur. They have used almost ten square metres of sustainably sourced natural wood per car. To enhance the “wrap-around” feel of the forward cabin, the veneer of the dashboard meets that of the doors in a perfectly aligned curve, giving the impression of an unbroken arc of wood around the interior.

Furthermore, the new model will now run on 19” tyres, which have been specifically developed in order to deliver optimum balance between refinement and handling performance.

More importantly, in it is featured Bentley’s most powerful engine – the 6.0-litre, twin turbocharged, 48-valve W12. It generates 625 hp (460 kW) at 6,000 rev/min and a staggering 800 Nm (580 lb ft) of torque from only 2000 rev/min. Other important details are that the new Flying Spur delivers a combined cycle fuel economy of 19.2 mpg (14.7 litres/100 km), and CO2emissions of 343 g/km.

In terms of aerodynamism, there is something interesting around the car. As the new Flying Spur approaches 200 mph (322 km/h) top speed, the ride height is automatically lowered via the air suspension system. This enhances vehicle stability and optimises aerodynamic balance.

In addition, the new car has a two-stage lowering strategy, firstly lowering by 5 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear at 121 mph (195 km/h) and then by a further 8 mm and 13 mm respectively at 149 mph (240 km/h). The multiple-mode Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is recalibrated to work in combination with the new chassis specification.

Flying Spur will be offered in range of seventeen standard exterior paint colours including Dark Cashmere (a new color added to the palette). The extended paint range of over 100 colours is joined by Damson.

2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Technical Specifications:

Engine
Type	6-litre twin-turbocharged W12
Max Power	616 bhp / 460 kW / 625 PS @6000 rev/min
Max Torque	800 Nm / 590 lb.ft @ 2000 rev/min
Transmission
Type	ZF 8-speed automatic with Quickshift, Block Shifting and wheel-mounted paddleshift
Driveline	Continuous all-wheel drive (40:60 rear bias)
Ratios	1st : 4.71; 2nd: 3.14; 3rd: 2.1; 4th: 1.67; 5th: 1.29; 6th: 1.00; 7th: 0.839; 8th: 0.667
Final Drive	2.85
Brakes
Front	405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
Rear	335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm, Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
Wheels and Tyres
Wheels	New 19″ (2 finishes), opt 9.5J x 20″, opt 9.5J x 21″ (3 designs)
Tyres	275/45 ZR19, 275/40 ZR20, 275/35 ZR21
Steering
Type	Rack & pinion, power assisted, speed-sensitive ZF servotronic
Turns lock-to-lock	2.8
Turning circle	11.7 m / 38.4 feet
Suspension
Front	Four link double wishbones, computer controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
Rear	Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti-roll bar
Damping	Continuous Damping Control
Dimensions
Wheelbase	3065 mm / 120.7 in
Overall length	5295 mm / 208.5 in
Width (across body)	1976 mm / 77.8 in
Width (inc. mirrors)	2208 mm / 86.9 in
Overall height	1488 mm / 58.6 in
Fuel tank	90 litres / 20 UK gallons / 24 US gallons
Boot volume	475 litres / 16.8 cu ft
Kerb weight (EU)	2475 kg / 5451 lb
Gross vehicle weight	2972 kg / 6546 lb
Performance
Top speed	200 mph / 322 km/h
0-60 mph	4.3 secs
0-100 mph	9.5 secs
0-100 km/h	4.6 secs
0-160 km/h	9.5 secs
Fuel Consumption (EU cycle)*
Urban	12.6 mpg (22.4 litres/100 km)
Extra Urban	27.8 mpg (10.2 litres/100 km)
Combined	19.2 mpg (14.7 litres/100 km)
CO2 emissions	343 g /km
Fuel Consumption (EPA cycle)**
City (US mpg)	12
Highway (US mpg)	20
Combined (US mpg)	15
Emissions Controls	EU 5 and US LEV IISource: Bentley

Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition To Debut In Geneva

Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition is going to be unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show was just announced by the tuning company. Only 45 units of this special vehicle will be made in order to celebrate the 45th birthday of Irmscher in 2013.

The customization here was created with the aim to enhance the distinctively sporty design of the Opel Astra GTC. Under the hood of the latter works an improved Astra 1.6 Turbo engine, which develops 200 hp (147 kW).

With a lowering of 30 mm with progressive spring rate, in conjunction with 20-inch alloy wheels this Opel is full of power on the road and in addition in grabs the attention of the viewers immediately.

Balance in proportions is also an aim here and is an attribute which Irmscher clearly emphasizes with its design ideas and their development. Seen from the front, the radiator grille with Irmscher Carbon bar, the harmoniously integrated front spoiler lip and the track width of 20-inch wheels in Evo Star design perfectly contribute to a new more dramatical visual stance.

Observed from the rear, one can see that the sporty ambitions are also evident there. In fact, the striking roof spoiler, the diffuser insert and the left and right ellipsoidal tailpipes contribute to more agile and dynamic look. In addition, at the tail one can also notice the “Sport 45” signature.

On the other hand the interior of the car includes original Irmscher seats, door panels and center armrest, which were trimmed with fine leather and correspond to the exterior color with a yellow stitching. Moreover, the tuning company refined the interior further by adding door pins and pedals in aluminum. At last, the floor mats include Irmscher logo and the “Sport 45” signature.

Source: Irmscher

Rinspeed microMAX Concept To Be Unveiled In Geneva [VIDEO]

At the end of the last year it was announced that Rinspeed microMAX Concept will make its first official world reveal at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This comprehensive mobility concept is developed by the joint efforts of Rinspeed and Harman.

As a matter of fact they call the microMAX – the networked swarm car. With this concept Frank M. Rinderknecht, the boss of Rinspeed, transfers the idea of swarm intelligence to urban traffic and sets out to do nothing less than bring it to higher level.

The ingenious commuter vehicle combines personal and public transportation. Here Harman supplied it with “urbanSWARM” community concept based on the Harman Cloud platform, which involves company’s individual technical features that are already available commercially today with a comprehensive Cloud-based mobility concept.

To be more precise, this allows effortless access to navigation functions in real time. Based on the information from all vehicles connected to the swarm, the system can modify the routes dynamically to account for current traffic.

More importantly, the microMAX owners are part of modern mobility community that allows all vehicles to be utilized with maximum flexibility. A special app custom-developed by Harman for this purpose gives all road users who are looking for a transport option and are part of the selected community access to the new mobility concept.

How it works: potential riders only need to enter their destination, and then the “urbanSWARM” community steps in by using Cloud technology to access the collective information and experience of the entire swarm of vehicles to do the rest. Because the system has information about routes, destinations, traveling speeds and occupancy of all vehicles in the swarm, it calculates potential ride opportunities in real time.

The concept has a length of 3.7 meters, but offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and an unfolded stroller or shopping cart. Its height is of 2.2 meters and permits the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with a custom-developed safety belt system from TRW, a top vendor in the vehicle safety sector.

Moreover, the modern interior was made by the specialist Hornschuch and the special textiles were delivered by Strähle&Hess. In the cabin, all occupants enjoy such amenities as a coffee maker, refrigerator for refreshments and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or they can even work while on the move.

Something that impressed me a lot is that the spacious interior has an airy and light feeling. You can receive the same impression by the video below which shows all of the assets of this concept vehicle. The clearly arranged VDO instrument panel dominates the area in front of the driver. It includes a central control unit which has been custom-programmed by software service provider Noser.

Furthermore, the command center for the “urbanSWARM” community platform is the 19-inch HD touchscreen from Harman, which includes a multi-dimensional HMI (Human Machine Interface) and offers expanded display functions.

Of course, microMAX is an all-electric vehicle powered by a forklift drive system from world market leader Linde Material Handling. The system is recharged at intelligent charging stations.

Behind the unusual design of the microMAX stays an aim for a change in a long-term attitudes to short-distance transport by cleverly bringing together private and public use in individual travel. The idea is to encourage potential passengers to join the driver for the ride. This would slash carbon dioxide emissions and travel costs at a stroke while radically reducing traffic congestion. A choice of models and extras make the microMAX incredibly adaptable, and it can be fitted out

We are to see the new microMAX Concept debuting on 7th of March in Geneva. Until then, a great impression of what this vehicle is like leaves the video below. Enjoy!

httpv://youtu.be/pR8FopEu5vQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Rinspeed

2013 Cadillac XTS To Be Equipped With W20 Livery Package

The new 2013 Cadillac XTS is now outfitted with a special W20 Livery Package that redefines luxury. With it to the XTS-based limousines are included elements of the XTS Platinum Edition.

In fact, the special XTS model is at the higher-end of the product range, including 19-inch wheels, exterior door handles with LED illumination, safety technology like rear vision camera, and a micro-fiber suede headliner included in the XTS Platinum Edition.

In the package are also included heated rear seats, window sun shades, a power inverter to charge mobile devices, and navigation from Cadillac‘s CUE system for connectivity and control.

The new sedans are aimed towards professional services and are going to be produced I only 150 units. They represent the perfect combination of power, luxury, technology and sophistication that the customers desire and demand.

In particular, Cadillac’s Professional Vehicles program features a select number of coachbuilders authorized by Cadillac to convert vehicles for utilization in commercial or fleet duties according to a specific set of standards.

Source: Cadillac

Interior Elements Of Rolls-Royce Wraith Revealed [TEASER]

The 2013 Geneva Motor Show is near and hence more and more companies are revealing their upcoming new vehicles. We have been already introduced to some teasers of Rolls-Royce Wraith showing its front and profile.

Now the luxury brand is unveiling the third official image of its newest model. The car will include a luxurious, contemporary interior which will complement the dynamic poise of its exterior styling.

This Rolls-Royce has nothing else but luxury and hand-craftsmanship work inside. Furthermore, thanks to the inclusion of softest ‘Phantom-grade’ leathers and expanses of open pore wood named Canadel Panelling, the model will add even more individualism.

In fact, the interior theme looks so contemporary that it hints of an ultra-luxury yacht. The horseshoe sweep of Wraith’s cabin also echoes the cove at Le Canadel in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design team spent their winters.

In addition, it is important to mention that every possible interior detail has been carefully considered. The result is a beautiful execution even of the tiniest details. The clock, for instance, is presented with Blood Orange needle tips that point to the car’s dynamic potential, while paying tribute to brand’s aviation heritage.

Of course, Rolls-Royce Wraith is entirely built by hand. The model which will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Source: Rolls-Royce