Author: Lidia Todorova

Project Grand Walker: SR Auto BMW 750Li CV1

Under the name “Project Grand Walker” hides the SR Auto BMW 750Li CV1 because of its grand and executive appearance and aggressive stance. The forceful image of the car is reinforced by its 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine.

The V8 generates 407 hp (300 kW) at engine speeds of between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. It mobilizes a maximum torque of 600 Nm (441 lb-ft) that is maintained between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. The effortless acceleration of this BMW from 0 to 100 km/h is delivered within 7.9 seconds.

More importantly, Project Grand Walker include a more refined persona thanks to its classy pearl white exterior which is paired with an elegant set of Vossen CV1 in a matte graphite finish. At the front SR Auto Group used 22×9 inch wheels and at the rear – 22×10.5 ones. In addition, some black accents on them are also present but they only highlight the beautiful lines of the Project.

Source: SR Auto Group

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Raises Over One Million at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

2014-Chevrolet-Corvette-Stingray-THUMB The first retail production model of 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has been sold for the incredible amount $1.05 million at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auctions that concluded Sunday. The vehicle was among five other Chevrolet high performance cars, which raised a combined $2.14 million.

As promised by the brand, the proceeds will go to the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, as well as to the Habitat for Humanity Detroit, the American Heart Association, the Guy Fieri Foundation for Inspiration and Imagination and the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans.

2014 Corvette Stingray 0001 was sold in Saturday to the businessman and NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick. He gave over one million just few days after Stingray made its official debut at the North American International Auto Show. The model is powered by a 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine, which can generate 450 horsepower (335 kW) and has 450 lb.-ft. of torque (610 Nm).

The other Chevys at the auction were the 1958 Corvette sold for $270,000 (£170,500); the 2012 COPO Camaro Convertible sold for $400,000; the 69 COPO Camaro in Inferno Orange Metallic factory drag-race cars built for 2012; the 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition sold for $270,000. The latter is powered by a 505 hp (371 kW) LS7 engine, and is painted in black with custom yellow stripes.

The last one sold was the 2013 Camaro ZL1 Convertible – the first Convertible off the assembly line – sold for $150,000. The vehicle is powered by a 580 hp (427 kW) supercharged 6.2L LSA small-block engine.

Source: Chevrolet

Seat Mii And Ibiza Offered in Toca Editions

Seat Mii Toca and Seat Ibiza Toca Editions are now being introduced to the market delivering more desirable equipment and special features. In Spanish “Toca” means “touch” and as you can conclude this name gives a fairly obvious clue to the bonuses included in those two new models.

In particular, Toca Editions come with the very useful Seat Portable System (including a touch-screen), which was firstly introduced to the Seat range with the Mii city car. First of all, the Mii Toca is based on the 1.0 60 PS SE version, but adds the Seat Portable System and rear parking sensors.

Secondly, by committing to the Ibiza Toca (which is based on the SE version), the drivers will get a set of 16-inch “Stratos” alloy wheel. These were previously 15-inch. In addition, the Seat Portable System is also featured.

Both Ibiza and Mii are loaded with equipment which features the following: air conditioning, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, electric front windows, electronic stability control (ESC), remote central locking. The only difference that the Ibiza adds is that it includes front fog lights with cornering function.

Furthermore, the aforementioned Seat Portable System includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming, a MicroSD card slot for music storage, and trip computer functions, all controlled via a fool-proof interface on a five-inch touchscreen.

Seat Mii Toca

Doors	Model	Engine	PS	CO2 g/km
3dr	Toca	1.0 12V	60	105
5dr	Toca	1.0 12V	60	105

Seat Ibiza Toca

Doors	Model	Engine	PS	CO2 g/km
SC	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139
5dr	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139
ST	Toca	1.4 85PS	85	139

Source: Seat

World Debut: Aston Martin Rapide S

Absolutely exclusive and with stunning visual characteristics the new Aston Martin Rapide S is making its debut and it is showing off more luxury and power-related enhancements. The new GT has been redesigned and re-engineered which makes it one of the most beautiful cars on the market nowadays.

Rapide S will replace the outgoing Rapide, has an assertive new “face” with the instantly eye catching new full grille. In addition to this, to make it even more aggressive the designers matched the revised front end’s design with a new rear deck profile, which includes a more pronounced boot lid “flip”.

More importantly there are some comprehensive changes in the new Aston Martin model regarding its engine. It is powered by an AM11 naturally-aspirated 6.0-litre V12 powerplant delivering unprecedented force and enhanced in-gear acceleration.

Thanks to it the Rapide can now produce the stunning 558 hp (410 kW) at 6,750 rpm. The peak torque is 620 Nm (458 lb-ft) at 5,000 rpm. This amazing results lead to only one thing: great acceleration time.

The car needs only 4.9 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h on its way to the top speed of 190 mph. Despite the powerful performance, the vehicle shows great efficiency. CO2 emissions are 332 g/km – while fuel economy now stands at 19.9 mpg on the official EU combined cycle.

Aston Martin engineers also paid attention to the car’s dynamic stability control (DSC) in line with its significant increases in both power and torque. The car also benefits from the latest Gen4 iteration of Aston Martin’s hi-tech Adaptive Damping System (ADS). The system now offers three distinct settings: ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’.

The ADS automatically manages the suspension thus ensuring drivers greater sense of control at all times. The damper settings here are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

Furthermore, Rapide S has unique approach to pedestrian impact protection through its lowered engine, new bonnet, new front bumper construction and new grille. The grille moves rearwards on impact, whilst the central and outboard chin stiffeners give rigidity to the lower structure and support achievement of the leg impact regulations.

In terms of interior Aston Martin stands only for luxury. In addition, there is a new optional Carbon Exterior Pack which adds more sporting attitude. Front splitter, rear diffuser, mirror caps and rear lamp infills are all made from carbon fibre.

The piano black interior pack adds mirror-like shine to the facia, transmission tunnel centre plate and door handles. A darker surround in the instrument binnacle and steering wheel with black horn-push surround round off the pack’s sumptuous additions. Luxurious blend headlinings in either tan or grey are also present and reinforce the luxury treatment of the coupe.

Even more, the Rapide S now comes with improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) characteristics thanks to the new bonnet lining and revised windscreen cowl. Optionally there is a choice of a reversing camera and twin screen rear seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, remote control and six-disc DVD changer.

Aston Martin Rapide S will be available to order worldwide next month with prices announced closer to the on-sale date.

Source: Aston Martin

2014 Bentley Mulsanne With Enhanced Specifications [VIDEO]

The next-generation 2014 Bentley Mulsanne has just been exclusively unveiled. It will make an official first appearance at the Geneva International Salon d’Auto in March and will be available for ordering from April.

The facelifted includes new Comfort Specification which is featuring comfort headrests, footrests, duck down filled loose cushions and privacy curtains. Furthermore the design incorporates Bentley Winged Emblems, but also bespoke stitching or piping.

As a standard in this specification is now featured a new rear door armrest storage compartment, which can conveniently serve as a place for mobile phones, personal items or Bluetooth headphones for Rear Seat Entertainment.

There is also available an Entertainment Specification which in turn includes the latest in technological developments, picnic tables designed for an iPad and wireless keyboard. This means that the cabin of the Mulsanne will literally become a Wi-Fi Hotspot.

The rear cabin’s privacy can be attained through the touch of a button, with new privacy curtains offered as a Crewe-fitted option. Speaking about the cabin, here Bentley has offered two coor options: either Black or Ivory.

In addition, the Entertainment Specification is further enhanced with twin, eight inch LCD headrest screens, incorporating a 20 GB hard drive and DVD player, played through a ‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system, while two sets of Bluetooth headphones and a remote control.

In terms of exterior, there are three new additions to the palette: Dark Cashmere, Portofino and Damson. Dark Cashmere is a warm grey color, while Portofino is a new take on Pale Sapphire. The Damson is a rich color with subtle sparkle of rare purple diamonds.

What is more is that there are also three additional hide colors: Damson, Saffron and Brunel, which all complement the luxurious stance that the main colors deliver.

As an option, there is offered a range of bespoke Mulsanne luggage pieces which were hand made by the renowned Italian luggage specialists Schedoni. The full package comprises of six pieces, two large cases, two small cases and two foldable garment bags. All six pieces here include monogram Bentley lining and embossed Bentley logos on the main panels.

httpv://youtu.be/06Ivu-QPM-U

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Bentley

Optimized: Polestar Volvo V40 T4

Polestar Volvo V40 T4 is the latest model which adds to the Polestar Performance range. The car includes optimization thanks to which its power is increased to 200 hp (147 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft).

The aspiring chassis of the Volvo makes it one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive. With this transformation, Polestar is opting to deliver even more driving fun. Furthermore, the same optimization can be also done for the S60, V60, S80 and V70 T4 models and it will increase their power with 20 hp (15 kW) and 45 Nm (33 lb-ft).

In the present case, the Polestar V40 T4 delivers not only optimized power and torque, but also more fun in driving, and at the same time as it enhances the safety in risky situations. In addition to this, although the power output has been increased this doesn’t affect the fuel consumption which is equal to the one of the standard model.

Source: Polestar

Teaser: Rolls-Royce Wraith In Profile

Rolls-Royce Wraith is being teased once again. The luxury brand has just revealed the profile of its upcoming new model, which is going to make an official debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

In fact, this is the official first image of the Wraith and as we can see it shows a graceful silhouette which gives expression to a bold and thoroughly contemporary luxury vehicle. And just to remind you, this unique car is promised to be most powerful Rolls-Royce in history.

It also highlights design cues that can be seen in Phantom and Ghost models. Furthermore, Rolls-Royce Wraith pays tribute to the pioneering and adventurous spirit of the company’s forefather Charles Rolls.

Source: Rolls-Royce

Exclusive: Mansory Bentley Continental GT in Candy Red by Print Tech

Mansory Bentley Continental GT in Candy Red has been exclusively unveiled, showing-off its premium visual status and enhanced qualities. Powered by a V12 BiTurbo unit, the performance of this Bentley shows enviable figures.

It is capable of covering the 0-100 km/h sprint for less than 5 seconds on its way to the Vmax of 180 mph. In addition, according to the figures given, the Continental GT generates 575 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm of torque within the 1700rpm – 5000rpm range.

However, the tuning specialists from Print Tech were those who managed to make the car look even more outstanding! It was fully wrapped in Candy Red.

What is more, they added the special Mansory bodykit, which here consists of the astounding carbon hood, the 22 inch wheels and the lowered suspension by “db-avantgarde”. In addition, there was added a Mansory exhaust system.

At last the interior was entirely redesigned the db-avantgarde team. Unfortunately, no additional details were disclosed regarding it, it was only confirmed that there was included a Hi-Fi music system.

Source: Print Tech via Facebook

Spiced Up: SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo PUR 3HREE

SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo PUR 3HREE is simply perfect. The simplicity and natural design of this super car makes it even more desirable for the tuning specialist. They seem to always aim to transform this unique vehicle but eventually end up by adding just a little bit spice to it.

The team from SR Auto Group team has also stuck to the basics and opted for the quality over quantity. They have added to this Lamborghini unique new set of wheels carrying the name PUR 3HREE with a classic nine spoke straight edged styling and modern black finish. They are in sizes 20×8.5” and 20×11” at the front and the rear respectively.

Originally the Gallardo accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and to 200 km/h in 11.8 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 325 km/h (202 mph). The great results are due to its 5.2L V10 engine which generates exactly 562 hp (419 kW) at 8,000 rpm.

Source: SR Auto Group

2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Offers Improved Dynamics and Safety

The next generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV made its official debut at last years Los Angeles Auto Show in November after being “teased” several times. Now it is time for this Toyota SUV to hit the market and offer to the customers great enhancements in terms of performance, handling and safety.

First of all, RAV4 comes with selectable Sport mode which delivers more dynamic, sporting drive experience. This is achieved by decreasing the power-steering assistance, sharpening the throttle response and adapting the automatic and CVT gearbox management for more responsive gearshifts.

In those models with featured AWD there is also available a new Dynamic Torque Control system. This one provides better stability and agility in any driving conditions – for instance wet or dry roads. In addition, the torque transfer to the rear wheels will now occur when the system detects understeer during cornering.

Next, the new RAV4 will also offer improved fuel efficiency thanks to the fact that the front-wheel drive is automatically engaged in normal driving conditions. The system uses information from speed, steering, throttle and yaw sensors to monitor and control torque transfer.

The Sport mode in the AWD models also activates torque transfer to the rear wheels from the moment the steering wheel is turned. This means that it automatically distributes 10 percent of torque to the rear wheels and will optimize torque transfer up to 50 per cent if actual understeer is detected.

What is also new here is the Eco mode which maximizes the fuel efficiency by regulating the engine’s output and air-conditioner’s operation. In terms of passive and active safety, the 2013 RAV4 steps in with highly rigid body that has been engineered to achieve a five-star NCAP safety rating.

Source: Toyota

Highest Efficiency in Class: 2014 Honda Accord PHEV [VIDEO]

2014 Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle is rated by the EPA at 115 MPGe1 in full electric mode which makes it one of the most efficient vehicles. The PHEV is now going to be available for the customers in New York and California.

The hybrid efficiency here is combined with a powerful dose of instantaneous electric-motor torque. The gasoline fuel-economy rating is of 47/46/46 mpg (city/hwy/combined) which makes the first production car in the U.S. to meet the new LEV3/SULEV20 emissions standard.

This Honda model is powered by the brand new Honda Earth DreamsTM technology two-motor hybrid system that uses a powerful 124-kilowatt (169 hp) electric motor. The latter serves also as a continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) mated to a highly fuel-efficient 2.0-liter i-VTEC, Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine.

The electric-only operation is supported by a 6.7-kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery, with high efficiency regenerative braking provided (electric-servo braking system). The driving efficiency is optimized with the help of the new two-motor hybrid system, which allow the Accord Plug-In powertrain to switch between all-electric EV Drive, gasoline-electric Hybrid Drive and direct Engine Drive within an instant.

Furthermore, two additional driving modes will be available which will help the driver to manage the capacity of the battery. First, in its default start-up mode, the Accord behaves like an electric vehicle. The car will remain in the full-electric mode until the battery state of charge demands the automatic switch to gas/electric hybrid operation.

httpv://youtu.be/lE6Bzk_Oi6U

What happens when the vehicle is put under higher speeds? In this case the gasoline engine steps in and delivers more power. Moreover, a button on the center console allows the driver to manually select the EV mode. In such cases of extreme acceleration, where everything is possible, it’s important to not forget to search for the cheapest auto insurance companies on the market nowadays.

Next, there is also a selectable HV mode, which turns the Accord into a conventional hybrid. This means that it combines the power of the electric motor and gasoline engine and optimizes the fuel efficiency while maintaining the battery charge level.

It is important to highlight that this PHEV can be fully charged from a low-charge indication point in less than three hours when plugged into a standard 120-volt household electrical outlet. When it is utilized a 240-volt “Level-2” charger, the car need to fully recharge in less than an hour. Here the HondaLink™ EV smartphone application will help the owners to remotely monitor the charging state.

2014 Honda Accord PHEV is based on the Touring trim level of standard Accord Sedan, but includes one-of-a-kind styling cues. It will be available in three exterior colors: White Orchid Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl and the model-exclusive Burnished Silver Metallic. Its starting price is $39 780.

Honda Accord Plug-In Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Model	EPA Combined MPGe Rating	EPA Fuel Economy City/Highway/Combined
Honda Accord Plug-In	115 MPGe	47/46/46
Ford Fusion Energi Plug-In	100 MPGe	44/41/43
Chevy Volt	98 MPGe	35/40/37
Prius Plug-In	95 MPGe	51/49/50

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda