Lidia Todorova – Page 265 – Automobiles Review

Teaser: 2013 SpeedART Porsche Cayman SP81-CR

2013 SpeedART Porsche Cayman SP81-CR is a project which we are sure will happen in the near future. Since the 2013 Porsche Cayman 981 is going to make an official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in a month, SpeedART’s modification is just a possibility in the future.

However, given how exquisite it is going to be, we have no doubts that we are to see the project coming to the real world. To go straight to the details, the tuned Porsche have three power kits with 345 hp (254 kW), 360 hp (265 kW) and 400 hp (294 kW).

In addition, it is going to feature a sport exhaust systems with design twin tail pipes and optional sound switch. For better stance on the road the Cayman runs on 21” wheels typ LSC-FORGED (Light Spoke Competition).

There is also a body kit in bi-color-design which comprises of front chin spoiler, rear spoiler and diffusor, rear air outlets, side panels with real carbon applications and a new designed retro-style bonnet with edgings which will open to the front.

In addition, the sport suspension is adjustable with lift system as an option. The interior of the car can be designed with many different leather and Alcantara variations.

Source: SpeedART

February 7, 2013

Winter Tale: Vilner Transforms BMW 5-Series F10 and 6-Series M F12 [VIDEO]

Not only one but two exceptional new BMW models got full modification by the talented luxury tuning specialists from Vilner. Here, we are talking about the 5-Series F10 and 6-Series M F12 models of the famous German auto-maker.

Both vehicles were foiled in white matt, which makes them look almost like twins. Moreover, this actually leaves us with the impression that they are being part of some sort of magical winter tale. The exterior modification does not stop here: Vilner added new spoilers to the rear hoods, and the rear lights were also given a “make-up”.

Next, the visual stance of the Vilner BMW 5-Series F10 and Vilner BMW 6-Series M F12 is made even more aggressive thanks to the contrast that the wheels, which are in dark color – Graphite and Black, are making to the foiling.

The true craftsmanship of Vilner however, can be seen throughout the interior of both models. First, the interior of the 5-Series was entirely changed. Of course, the same white theme was continued inside the coupe, but also there were added striking contrasting accents in black and red.

In particular, they are to be found on the panel, the upper part of the doors, the ceiling, the middle part of the seats as well as on the steering wheel. The latter looks completely outstanding thanks to its complete customization.

Even more, the rearview mirror was wrapped in Alcantara, which has become something typical for Vilner’s interior styling modifications and it turns out to be their trademark. There were also added red seatbelts. Everything else left in the interior was wrapped in the finest white leather.

Secondly, in the 6 Series model, the tuning professionals have changed only separate details. The aim was to complement the perfect visual characteristics of the car. The steering wheel here was also modified and to it were added significant amount of elements in Alcantara in ivory color.

In addition, the airbag, the ceiling, the back of the rear seats, the rearview mirror and all plastic elements of the seats as well as of the entire coupe were wrapped in Alcantara. In fact, the result is that there isn’t any plastic element left in the car that isn’t dressed in the afore mentioned material or in finest leather.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIp0o2jgWF0

Video Source: YouTube

February 6, 2013

Honda Starts 2013 Civic Si Challenge Contest

Honda will bring to the 2013 Chicago Auto Show the biggest racing game with the launch of Forza Horizon on Xbox 360. At the show the visitors will enjoy the opportunity of playing the game’s new downloadable Honda Challenge Car Pack.

With the latter, the players will have the option to race three, distinct performance-oriented Honda models: a new 2013 Civic Si Coupe, an original 1986 Civic Si, and the Honda Performance Development B-Spec Rally Fit.

Even more excitement is added with the fact that attendees can virtually race against Honda IndyCar driver Scott Dixon and try to beat his fastest time in a 2013 Honda Civic Si. 2013 Civic Si Challenge will in fact be a contest, where the fastest racer will have the chance to meet the Indianapolis 500® winner in-person and receive a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.

As a matter of fact this is a photo contest which encourages players to submit photos taken in-game of the 2013 Civic Si. The best photo will be featured on Honda social media channels and on the Honda web site. The winners will be also gifted a custom Civic Si-themed Xbox 360 gaming console.

Source: Honda

February 6, 2013

Honda to Reveal Two Concepts in Geneva

More news for the show in Geneva is coming! This time the main “actor” is Honda, which will introduce the Civic wagon concept model and the next generation NSX Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Next to those concepts at Honda’s stand is going to be the CR-V featuring the new 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine. But to go further into details, the Civic wagon concept delivers strong cues for the exterior design of the final mass produced version. It comes to add its forces to the famous Civic range.

Next, on the show will be the biggest star – the NSX Concept. Although we have already seen it at NAIAS a month ago, the model will make an official European debut. This concept gives glimpses of a potential direction for the next-generation NSX’s interior design.

As you can see, the exterior design stays true to the original concept styling. It delivers low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions that are highlighted by clean, modern and simple surfacing, and edgy details.

At last but not least, Honda CR-V equipped with the new Earth Dreams Technology 1.6i-DTEC diesel engine, will be available in two-wheel drive, with manual transmission, providing an exceptional balance of performance and economy. This unit is the lightest engine in its class and it helps the CR-V achieving an energetic performance, agile handling and low running costs for customers.

Source: Honda

February 6, 2013

Infinti Q50 Makes an European Debut

Infiniti Q50 has already made its official first appearance at this year’s North American International Auto Show. However, the European fans are still waiting to see it on the old continent’s market. They have to wait no longer since the sports saloon will be officially introduced at the Geneva Motor Show on 5th of March.

2014 Q50 for Europe includes the first fruit of the co-operation agreement with alliance partner Daimler AG. Additional technical details of this Infiniti model for Europe will be announced at the press conference.

But in general what we know so far is that the Infiniti Q50 is a world-class sports saloon with an engine line-up. Furthermore it also heralds a new design direction for the Infiniti range. This means nothing else but that the new design philosophy in the future is going to give a Q for saloons and coupes or QX badge for crossovers and SUVs.

Powerful and distinctive, the Q50 includes versatility of technology innovation: it is equipped with world’s first Direct Adaptive Steering technology. The other highlights about the model will be revealed at the show.

Source: Infiniti

February 6, 2013

Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R to Compete in 24 Hours of Le Mans [VIDEO]

Not one but two factory-supported Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R cars will compete in famous Le Mans Race in France in June, was just announced by Dodge.

The Viper finished one-two at the 24 Heures du Mans in GTS class competition three consecutive years from 1998 to 2000. And this means that racing is inherent in Viper’s genes. Historically the Viper GTS-R has enjoyed great success at Le Mans and now is expected to continue this tradition.

Dodge SRT Viper GTS-R represents a rebirth for the brand in road racing. The race car engages in an elevated level of technical sophistication to the track. For this reason SRT Motorsports teamed with Riley Technologies on the design-and-build process.

Furthermore, the drivers returning to the SRT Motorsports lineup for this year will be Tommy Kendall, Kuno Wittmer, Dominik Farnbacher and Jonathan Bomarito. Additional team announcements will be revealed at a later date.

httpv://youtu.be/bJjYBtLw3do

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Dodge

February 5, 2013

MINI John Cooper Works GP and Countryman With Updated Performance

The MIN John Cooper Works range will be extended for the customers in the United Kingdom with the addition of the updated performance-oriented models. The prominent feature here is the enhanced version of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged petrol engine.

The latter was optimized for the different models in the range. We are speaking about the JCW variants of the MINI Hatch, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible, MINI Coupe and MINI Roadster. The new unit has the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor – 211 hp (155 kW) output at 6,000 rpm and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque (280 Nm/ 207 lb-ft with overboost) between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm.

However, it will offer increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and cleaner emissions. The enhanced versions also include a wider utilization of MINIMALISM environmental technologies such Brake Energy Regeneration and Auto Start/Stop.

Furthermore, for the first time in the JCW range will be offered a new engine offers a six-speed manual transmission. Of course there is an optional automatic one with manual override on the gear selected or steering wheel paddles.

More importantly, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman which is brand’s newest performance model will include MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive and also gets launched in UK. It has advanced traction system and comes equipped with 1.6-litre 218 hp (160 kW) engine with peak torque of 280 Nm (207 lb-ft). The unit is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function.

The interior of this John Cooper Works model includes sports seats, sports steering wheel, Piano Black interior detailing and an anthracite-coloured roof liner. MINI’s innovative Centre Rail storage and attachment system is part of standard specification.

What is more MINI John Cooper Works GP which brings about the highest level of performance, and will be included in the range that is going to be launched. The JCW GP road car utilizes race-developed technology and is the fastest production model that MINI has ever built. It will be limited to just 2000 examples worldwide.

It is packed with JCW motorsport features does not have a rear bench seat, hence the hot hatch boasts outstanding performance. The engine has been reworked to develop 218 hp(160 kW), pushing the car from 0-100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and on the way to a Vmax of 150 mph.

Other modifications include adjustable coilover suspension, a new sports brake system, a more aerodynamic body kit and unique alloy wheels with performance tyres. The exterior color is the exclusive metallic Thunder Grey, but has added accents with the vibrant red finish around the air scoop on the bonnet, door mirror caps and front air intakes. The interior of the model includes two Recaro sports seats with special GP stitching.

MINI John Cooper Works GP is priced at £28 790, while MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has a starting price of £28 595.

MINI John Cooper Works models performance data:

MINI John Cooper Works models – key performance data Model	0-62mph/secs		Top speed/mph		Combined fuel economy/mpg		CO2/g/km
manual (auto)		manual (auto)		manual (auto)		manual(auto)
MINI JCW Hatch	6.5 (6.7)		148 (147)		42.8 (39.8)		153 (165)
MINI JCW Clubman	6.8 (7.0)		148 (147)		42.2 (39.2)		155 (167)
MINI JCW Convertible	6.9 (7.0)		146 (145)		41.5 (38.7)		157 (169)
MINI JCW Coupe	6.4 (6.6)		144 (148)		42.8 (39.8)		153 (165)
MINI JCW Roadster	6.5 (6.7)		147 (146)		41.5 (38.7)		157 (169)
MINI JCW Countryman	7.0 (7.0)		140 (139)		38.2 (35.8)		172 (184)
MINI JCW GP	6.3		150		39.8		165

Source: MINI

February 5, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender 110 Concept 23 Teased

Land Rover Defender is an emblematic vehicle which exudes power and stability. The new modification of it was released two years ago and is equipped with new 2.2-litre diesel engine.

The latter delivers 122 hp (90 kW) at 3500RPM and 360Nm (266 lb-ft) at 2000RPM matched to a GFT MT 82 6-speed gearbox. The Vmax of the Defender is 144 km/h (90 mph).

Now, no other than the tuning team at A. Kahn Design is going to transform this Land Rover into something we haven’t seen before. The designer has teased us with a sketch of the upcoming Kahn Land Rover Defender 110 Concept 23 and has promised to bring it to the real world very soon.

The concept study will mix elements of adventure and romanticism, and reinforce incredible strengths. It will be more aggressive, because the team will add wide track arch kit. This kit will comprise of lightweight extended wide wheel wings with integrated vents, embossed Kahn feature, side vents with mesh, bonnet vents with mesh, clear rear light lenses, clear side repeaters, clear front light lenses, crosshair headlights and Kahn prototype wing blades, Kahn prototype tailgate badge and the Kahn oval tailgate badge.

Of course the upcoming concept will also include Kahn 1948 Defender wheels in 8×16 size, finished in satin black. With their simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces promise to strengthen not only the powerful visual attributes of the vehicle, but also to make it a true winner on the road.

Kahn Land Rover Defender 110 Concept 23 is set to launched in July this year.

Source: A. Kahn Design

February 5, 2013

Reborn as a Crossover: Renault Scenic XMOD

The new Renault Scenic XMOD model will enrich the automotive world, being reborn as a crossover. It has a sporty and elegant stance, raised ground clearance and special alloy wheels.

The crossover-inspired design includes special front and rear bumpers, sill guards and chrome-finish roof bars across the range. Furthermore, the front end combines Renault’s new design identity and signature LED daytime running lights for more distinctiveness.

The logo of the brand at the front has made bigger and set against a gloss black background. This is the new grille, which expresses the new design language of the famous French automaker.

In terms of interior, this Scenic modification features wide range technology equipment: fixed centre console, rotary control for the all-new Grip Xtend traction control system, multi-directional joystick control for the Renault R-Link 7” touchscreen multimedia system with customizable TFT display.

The top-of-the-range includes a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminium-capped pedals and gear lever knob and new interior appointments, new stitched upholstery, Leather/Alcantara Pack, Bose® tailor-engineered sounds with excellent acoustic performance.

What is more, the XMOD features the Grip Xtend system, which is an advanced traction control system that helps the crossover to grip the road confidently under difficult driving conditions. There are three modes here: “Expert” mode, where the Grip Xtend operates the braking system, while leaving the driver in full control of the engine torque.

The second one is the “Road” mode, where the driver is being offered conventional traction control settings. And at last the “Loose Ground” mode, which maximizes the braking control and engine torque control as a function of available grip.

The vehicle will be offered three new Energy powertrains. Especially noteworthy is the brand-new TCe 130 Stop & Start engine, boasting a 15% improvement on fuel consumption over the previous TCe 130 unit, equivalent to a combined-cycle saving of more than 1 litre/100km.

Renault Scénic XMOD will make its official debut on 5th of March at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

Source: Renault

February 5, 2013

Mercedes-Benz AMG Petronas F1W04 Silver Arrow Revealed [VIDEO]

Mercedes-Benz AMG Petronas F1W04 Silver Arrow has just completed its first laps this morning at the Jerez circuit in Spain. In addition the successful team announced the beginning of a partnership with BlackBerry, which will be its official mobile computing partner.

The new BlackBerry 10 platform will deliver tools and services for Mercedes AMG Petronas. With their help the fan engagement will be enhanced through the joint development of apps. In addition the smartphones will also be used by the team throughout the Formula One season.

Furthermore, the BlackBerry branding can be seen on the chassis and headrest of the F1 W04 Silver Arrow, the racesuits of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg, and on the team’s racewear kit. In the video below you can watch how Lewis Hamilton himself utilizes the smartphone in order to memorize the first day of the Silver Arrow out and “see how it goes”.

httpv://youtu.be/VsdBOtgWQYA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 4, 2013

Bentley Teases The New Continental Flying Spur

Bentley Continental Flying Spur is a model that has just been teased two weeks ahead of its official release. It aims to redefine performance and luxury standards.

No additional details around it were disclosed so far. However, Bentley also published a video through which some of the exclusive features of the new Flying Spur become visible. Running through the streets of the big city, the model gets distinctiveness through its updated exterior lines, enhanced headlights, and new set of multi-spoke wheels.

The interior shows a two-tone treatment, with bespoke touch and contrast stitching, and of course it will probably include the finest Alcantara or/and Nappa leather. More details and full specifications will be released on 20th February.

Source: Bentley

February 4, 2013

Opel Adam R2 Concept Debuts At Geneva Motor Show

Opel Adam Cup added to the range of the brand’s motorsport cars with its debut in November last year. However, at the Geneva Motor Show Opel will presents Adam R2 Concept, which is built on the Cup version and will undergo final development and homologation during 2013.

Opel Adam R2 aims to add a step further to the motorsport strategy by offering a top-class vehicle for international customer rallying. In addition, it will be also eligible for every national championship in Europe.

The R2 rally variant is equipped with special body components from the sporty Opel OPC product line: some of the attention-grabbing elements can be seen on the hood and tailgate, as well as under-ride guards – front and rear. They putt emphasis on the sporty format of the Adam. Its unique shell also harbors pure high-tech.

Under the hood is to be found the 1.6-liter ECOTEC 16V engine with variable camshaft phasing. It generates around 185 hp (136 kW) and has a maximum torque of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) in its competitive configuration. Power is transmitted through a Sadev sequential five-speed gearbox and a limited-slip differential with a multi-disc lock.

Furthermore, the chassis set-up with asphalt and gravel settings, guarantees maximum traction and dynamic handling. On the other hand the braking system delivers perfect deceleration, because of its inherent hydraulic ‘fly-off’ handbrake, Brembo 4-piston front brake calipers and braking pressure regulation for the rear axle.

The R2 is a true competitive vehicle and since being such it includes a cabin that features all the necessary attributes and details: an integrated safety structure; SPARCO Competition racing seats compatible with the HANS driver safety system; a cockpit with an LCD gear indicator, control light and MONIT trip computer; a central control panel; a map reading light and an electric fire extinguisher.

Source: Opel

February 4, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova