Lidia Todorova – Page 266 – Automobiles Review

2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline Delivers Enhanced Performance And Styling

The iconic 2013 Dodge Challenger RT Redline will be equipped with HEMI®-power, red-hot exterior accents and performance suspension, has been announced by Chrysler. In addition, the model will run on signature 20-inch Black Chrome wheels featuring a Redline Red accented lip and backbone.

To be more precise, the unit under the hood is the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 which is able to generate up to 375 horsepower (276 kW) and 410 lb-ft (303 Nm) torque and will be matched with a six-speed manual transmission, or paddle-shifting and driver adaptable automatic transmission.

Furthermore, the new two-color Redline Red and Graphite stripe runs from behind the front wheel arches to the tail. The visual stance of the muscle car becomes even more distinctive thanks to the rear-quarter section of the stripe which includes the “Redline” name in Red over Graphite color scheme. Additionally, there is also a body-color grille surround.

On the other hand the aforementioned 20-inch Black Chrome wheels with a Redline Red lip and inner backbone are there to deliver more performance and driving precision because they are matched with Super Track Pak adds Goodyear Eagle F1 P245/45R20 three-season performance tires. Adding to the enhanced performance are the high-performance brake linings and a lowered ride height.

What also concerns the exterior styling of this Dodge model is that it is going to be offered in four different colors: Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Bright White and Pitch Black. In terms of interior, it includes a Dark Slate Gray interior with Dark Slate Gray (R/T) performance seats, or premium Nappa leather performance seats in Radar Red or Dark Slate Gray (R/T Plus). For those who have made the choice of automatic transmission models, their cars will feature bright pedals, a Mopar® T-Handle shifter and remote start.

More importantly, this special edition Challanger RT will draw its power from a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Thanks to the latter, the car is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds. For even more control, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters with “sport mode” transmission calibration are included.

The level ot standard equipment is huge: performance-tuned suspension, performance-disc brakes, performance-tuned steering calibration, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, console-mounted USB port with iPod control and auxiliary audio input jack, SiriusXM Satellite Radio with 12-months subscription, automatic headlamps, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 160-mph primary speedometer, instrument panel with mini-carbon bezel, fog lamps, “R/T” grille badge, “HEMI” hood badges and rear body-color deck-lid spoiler, remote start, bright pedals and Mopar T-handle shifter.

The additional equipment includes the following: premium Nappa leather seating in Dark Slate Gray or Radar Red, heated front seats, six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier, ParkSense rear park assist, power heated mirrors, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with temperature gauge, location specific tire-pressure monitoring and compass, vehicle security alarm, and HomeLink universal transceiver.

The Redline extension will be available on R/T and R/T Plus models. It will be priced at $31 990 MSRP and can be found at dealerships in the beginning of April.

Source: Dodge

February 4, 2013

Lexus at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

With 2013 Geneva Motor Show being just “around the corner”, Lexus is revealing some insights of their participation. First of all it will mark the European debut of the new, full hybrid Lexus IS 300h.

IS 300h comes with all-new styling which enhances the models aggressive appearance and gives it more distinctive road presence than ever before. It also shows that Lexus has taken a step towards improving the dynamic performance.

In addition, the model will be available also in F Sport package that will include sports-themed exterior and interior design elements and sportier driving dynamics. Both versions will be available on the European market later this year. In addition to this Lexus’s full range of F Sport full hybrid models will be on show at the Motor Show.

Furthermore, what also will be exclusively shown in Geneva is the Opal Blue Lexus LF-LC 2+2 Hybrid Sports Coupe Concept. It includes fully driver-focused interior and expresses a totally new sporting image. Here is also present brand’s innovative design language: large spindle grille arrangement and rear architecture, which fuse distinctive style with engineering functionality.

The concept introduces the use of lightweight carbon fibre and a next generation full hybrid powertrain. This provides a great platform for the next generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system which includes a new high-energy battery pack. The latter is designed to generate greater power from a unit that is smaller than those used in Lexus’s current full hybrid model range. With its help the car generates a maximum of 500 hp (372kW) and this means that it has more power than any other Lexus’ hybrids.

Source: Lexus

February 1, 2013

McLaren Shows P1 Prototype Driven by Jenson Button

McLaren P1, which heading towards production, made a brief appearance at the McLaren Technology Centre. And it was driven by 2009 Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button!

As a matter of fact, this formed part of the launch event for the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes 2013 Formula 1™ challenger, the MP4-28. In addition, Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez, who is the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes official driver came to the event in a stunning orange McLaren 12C Spider.

His team teammate followed him with the camouflaged McLaren P1. The latter debuted as a Concept study at last year’s Paris Motor Show which was held in September. Of course, it immediately provoked huge interest and a eager anticipation for its official release.

Since then, the development of the technology beneath the carbon fibre skin of the P1 hasn’t stpped. The model is currently a subject of testing and it is expected to be the best driver’s car in the world on road and track.

Source: McLaren

February 1, 2013

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept With World Premiere in Geneva

Toyota is going to reveal its FT-86 Open Concept at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, but now it teases us with a sketch of what the car would look like. The brand is undoubtedly going to stoke the passions of driving enthusiasts when it unveils the convertible version of the popular 86 sportscar.

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept is in fact a possible future variant of the award-winning 86 and it has been made to gauge customer reaction for a convertible version of the famous model. Hence it will raise the question whether it is possible for the driving pleasure to be taken to another level.

Just as a reminder, the original FT-86 Concept debuted back in 2009 at Tokyo Motor Show and was designed to give the driver greater control with a compact design, light body and low centre of gravity. It promised power and environmental performance from its two-litre boxer engine.

The next car in the series was the FT-86G Sports Concept car and it was enhanced by GAZOO Racing. Thanks to the latter it got more aggressive styling and performance. Although it retained the front-engine, rear-drive layout it included a tuned turbocharged engine enhancement.

Third in the series comes the FT-86 II Concept that debuted in 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show. It had compact proportions featured a long, low bonnet, high wings and rear-set cabin.

Souce: Toyota

February 1, 2013

MTM Audi S6 Finally Released

MTM Audi S6 was announced as a project back in July 2012. Since then we were looking forward to this modification and wondering what exactly it would be like. Well, the time for waiting is over – the transformed Audi is already here!

MTM promises a boost of power at the touch of a button. The 420 hp (309 kW) from the Audi’s S6-C7 4.0 TFSI quattro engine weren’t enough for the specialist. Hence, they have added a power pack which when needed releases a tremendous thrust 555 horsepower (409 kW) and a torque of about 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) instead of the standard 550 Nm (406 lb-ft).

The key here however is that this boost happens only “when it is needed”. To achieve this MTM united the M-Cantronic with the V-Cantronic in one box and set up the control in the MMI practically at the touch of a button.

The result is that the speed is only available when one needs it- it is up to 290 km/h. In addition a four-pipe stainless steel exhaust system complements the powerful ensemble. Furthermore, there are some visual accents added. MTM supplied the Audi S6 with MTM-bimoto set of wheels.

Behind them there is a braking system which is designed in order to deliver braking comfort just like in the series model, but such braking power which is adapted to the engine and driving performance.

Source: MTM

February 1, 2013

Petrolicious: Restless Maserati Merak SS [VIDEO]

Back in 1976 Maserati introduced the model Merak SS. It was created to fight the Ferrari 308 and Lamborghini Urraco, hence the vehicle had to be super-stylish, include great aerodynamics and offer stunning amount of power.

The aerodynamically enhanced vehicle generated a power of 217 hp (162 kW) and had a dry weight of 1,400 kg (3,086 lb). The production of the SS stopped in 1982. Driving such car must be very personal and intimate experience, allowing one to taste the swell of freedom and engaging their senses.

In other words, the Merak SS gives you restlessness – and such is the case with Maxx. In fact, below is a very intimate video, created by Petrolicious team, revealing the relationship between a man and his Maserati, a relationship which is taken to a higher level and does not leave one unimpressed!

httpv://vimeo.com/58416931

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: Petrolicious

January 31, 2013

Honda Includes Siri Eyes Free Technology Into Select Vehicles

Honda will include Apple’s Siri Eyes Free Technology Into some of its most successful model ranges. Siri is the intelligent assistant that helps the occupants get things done just by asking, and it is going to be integrated in 2013 Honda Accord, Acura RDX and ILX models as an option.

In the technology will be added a Using Eyes Free mode, thanks to which Siri takes hands-free functionality even further and minimizes distractions even more by keeping the iOS device’s screen from lighting up.

With this step Honda is expecting to meet the connectivity and convenience needs of its customers in a responsible manner. For this reason, the brand has reengineered its software to seamlessly integrate Siri Eyes Free mode into its Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® via the onboard microphone and speakers.

Source: Honda

January 31, 2013

Mansory Porsche Panamera Updated by SR Auto

Could a Mansory Porsche Panamera look even better? The answer is “Yes”, but only if it has the magical touch of the SR Auto Group tuning team. They have added a little color to this white beauty and brought it back to life.

In fact, this particular model was the first Mansory Panamera in Vancouver, Canada, and this means that it carries a very special history. To be more precise, the Mansory tuning included here consist mainly of exterior enhancements.

The famous Porshce model got new Mansory Front Bumper, Mansory Front Fenders, Mansory Rear Fender Arches and Mansory Rear Bumper thus becoming more aggressive on the road. To add more spice to the already enhanced Panamera, SR Auto team has equipped it with new set of wheels.

Twenty two inch PUR 4OUR Depth’s have been paired with the vehicle and they are in one of PUR’s most glamorous finishes – Davinci Red. This vibrant color brings a whole new life and meaning to the visual appearance of the car. Complimenting the brake calipers and tail lights, the wheels tie together the black, red, and white theme.

Source: SR Auto Group

January 31, 2013

KIA to Debut Cross GT Concept in Chicago [TEASER]

With 2013 Chicago Auto Show being just around the corner, more and more companies are giving a glimpse of their new vehicles. No exception makes KIA, which has just revealed a teaser image of their new concept vehicle.

It carries the name KIA Cross GT Concept and at a first glance it shows a very powerful stance. The car is said to be inspired by nature but driven by technology and it gives a clue of what the future of Kia’s design language in the form of a premium Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) will be.

Unfortunately, no additional details were disclosed so we are eagerly waiting till 9th of February when we will see more of this exciting new concept.

Source: KIA

January 31, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK35 Enhanced by Overdrive

As a basis for the exceptional Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK35 served the 2012 ML350 BlueTec model which in general is a very impressive vehicle. However, the tuners from the Bulgarian company Overdrive managed to make it even more exclusive by adding to the Carlsson modification its magical touch.

Basically, what they have done here is to add a magnifier in each headlight. When the latter is in regime “daylight” the magnifiers send out red beam. In addition, the tuning specialists have also mounted LED daylight running lights in the headlights.

Next, the original door handles and the rearview-mirrors were repainted in Black Piano Varnish. On the sunshades was embroidered “Carlsson” and for easier control, to this Mercedes-Benz was added a rear-view camera.

Nevertheless, let’s not forget that all of this is an additional tuning over the original one done by Carlsson. Its exterior package includes the following: addition for the front bumper with two chrome grills, additional headlights for fog and LED daylight running lights mounted in the bumper, central chrome grille with “Carlsson” badge, side doorsteps, addition for the rear bumper with diffusor, end muffler on the exhaust system with two tips.

At last but not least, to the ML350 was added also a power enhancement via ECU Programming performed by Kleemann. After it, the horsepower of this SUV was increased up to 320 (235 lb-ft) in comparison to the original 245 hp (180 lb-ft).

Photographer: Deyan Yordanov

Source: Overdrive

January 30, 2013

MINI Expands its All-Wheel-Drive Range

MINI has just announced that it is going to expand its all-wheel-drive range (ALL4) of vehicles thus delivering more driving fun, focused experience and agile handling. In March the choice of additional models with ALL4.

That’s when the MINI Paceman will be launched featuring the ALL4 as a standard or an option. The number of models with this technology will increase up to eight. The first Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment sees ALL4 optionally teaming up with the diesel engines in the Cooper SD Paceman (105 kW/143 hp) and Cooper D Paceman (82 kW/112 hp), as well as the petrol unit under the bonnet of the Cooper S Paceman (135 kW/184 hp).

In addition, MINI John Cooper Works Paceman will also be equipped with the all-wheel-drive system as standard. The model generates 160 kW/218 hp and has as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. Automatic transmission comes as an option.

As a matter of fact, ALL4 delivers boost to traction, directional stability and agility through corners. In addition, the ALL4 will be featured in the Countryman, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper SD Countryman and Cooper D Countryman as an option. On the other hand as a standard it will be included in the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.

To go further into details, the all-wheel-drive system utilizes an electromagnetic centre differential to distribute drive seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving the system diverts up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels, rising to 100 per cent in extreme conditions.

ALL4’s control electronics are integrated directly into the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) management unit, enabling drive to be channelled through the wheels as required in a matter of milliseconds.

In addition it also optimizes the fuel economy. It also utilizes the data collected by DSC to tweak the power split pre-emptively and to effect through dynamically taken corners. The system feeds a higher proportion of the engine’s power to the rear wheels to make turn-in as precise as possible.

All of the models which will feature the ALL4, will also include the DSC system with DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) mode. The latter allows controlled slip through the driven wheels to ease moving off on loose sand or deep snow. What is more, those models will also have a very specific chassis set-up, which includes an inner vibration damper and delivers great acoustic and dynamic comfort.

Source: MINI

January 30, 2013

Nissan at Canadian International Auto Show

2014 Nissan Versa Note, Resonance Concept and Juke Nismo will make their premiere at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto (CIAS) on 14th of February. There, the Versa Note four-door hatchback will show segment-exclusive technology, outstanding fuel economy, smart packaging and class-leading cargo space.

The Versa lineup has a dramatic new look and will go on sale at Nissan‘s Canadian dealers in June 2013. The model has its own distinctive look, feel and added hatchback utility. It carries the Note designation, as well as the PURE DRIVE badge that shows a low CO2 emissions and exceptional fuel efficiency.

On the other hand the Nissan Resonance Concept, which was just recently unveiled at the 2013 NAIAS will exhibit the direction of future Nissan crossovers. To go further into detials, the Resonance Concept has an open, airy architecture highlighted by a unique “floating” roof created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design.

It also includes all-wheel drive and efficient hybrid electric drivetrain. The latter featured the so called “one-motor, two-clutch” system, which combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system.

Nissan-Resonance-Concept-01

In addition, the famous Juke Nismo will give a glimpse of the new strategy of the brand. Juke Nismo will be powered by a 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder engine based on the 16GT FOUR Type V. The unit was precisely tuned in order to provide great driving experience. The production model that will be on display represents new brand strategy and focuses on creating premium high-performance sports vehicles.

Nissan will also offer the visitors of the show the opportunity to connect with the vehicles through its Virtual Showroom 3D Hologram display. The latter will now feature an application of a high-definition holographic video projection system utilized to make the illusion of three-dimensional moving images.

The system is also extremely interactive, because it allows people to interact with virtual vehicles when performing physical gestures. I details, the Nissan car will be something called “Pepper’s Ghost” – an illusionary technique traditionally used in theatre, similar to a transparent 3D hologram.

Source: Nissan

January 30, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova