Lidia Todorova – Page 277 – Automobiles Review

Rinspeed microMAX to debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Rinspeed microMAX is a concept vehicle which intends to revolutionize urban traffic. This innovative urban transportation car is created by Frank M. Rinderknecht with the aim to revolutionize short-distance transport.

First of all, microMAX has unique upright seats, which are perfect for short-distance transfers. In fact, this concept defines an entirely new class of vehicles. Despite its length of 3.6 meters, this Rinspeed vehicle offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and a stroller or shopping cart. In addition, it also provides the desired privacy.

The vehicle height is of 2.2 meters. This allows the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with safety belts. Moreover, this allows an outstanding sense of spaciousness with homey lounge character.

What is even more, a coffee maker, a refrigerator for the passengers’ happy-hour drinks and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or for working while on the move are also included. microMAX also allows passengers to get in and ride because it is extremely convenient and simple. And every passenger decreases CO2 emissions and costs.

Of course, being environmentally conscious, the microMAX is an all-electric vehicle. Various equipment modules, for example for craftsmen or delivery services, make the space saver extremely versatile.

And to sum up: this is another creative idea which we look forward to seeing in the near future.

Source: Rinspeed

December 10, 2012

Volvo Reveals C30 Polestar Limited Edition

Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition is one of the sportiest-looking Volvo’s ever produced. In addition, under the hood is where the true excitement begins, because there is placed the C30’s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine.

As a matter of fact it had received a healthy performance upgrade done by Polestar – Volvo’s official performance partner. The result is a boosted output by 23 horsepower and 37 lb.-ft. of torque to 250 hp (184 lb-ft) and 370 Nm (273 lb.-ft.).

To go even further into details, what Polestar has done is to re-calibrated important parameters that control the engine. Some of them are the following: increase of turbocharger boost pressure, re-optimization of ignition- and fuel-mapping, re-calibration of throttle-response.

As a result, the driver can now enjoy faster throttle response, greatly improved mid-range torque and extra power. Safer passing performance and an enhanced sportier driving experience is what is also added via those changes.

In terms of exterior the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is improved thanks to the new 17-inch Styx Alloy Wheels with Matte Black Finish and Polestar badges on the rear and sides of the vehicle. On the other and, the interior has a sporty cabin, which is dressed with Premium Leather Seating Surfaces in a choice of Off-Black or two-tone Off-Black and Calcite.

Furthermore, some of the standard features here include the following: Power Glass Moonroof, Power Driver’s Seat with 3-Position Memory, Power Front Passenger Seat, Loadcover, Soft, Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass, LED Daytime Running Lights, Keyless Drive, Active Dual Xenon Headlights.

Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition will be produced in only 250 units.

Source: Volvo

December 10, 2012

2012 Toyota GT 86 is Top Gear’s Car of the Year

2012 Toyota GT 86 Sports Coupe has gained another prize being named the Car of the Year 2012 by Britain’s Top Gear magazine. However, this worldwide acclaim wasn’t enough for it and it was also named Coupe of the Year and Top Gear TV personality Jeremy Clarkson’s personal Car of the Year.

In fact, Toyota’s model is one of the most exciting and new cars for the 2012. First of all it at affordable price and secondly guiding principle in its creation was that it should be a car devoted to the pure passion of driving.

In GT 86 was also recently named 2012 Car of the Year by Drive Magazine as well as its Performance Car of the Year. It also won the People’s Choice award.

In details, the maximum power of the vehicle is 147kW, which is equivalent to 100 hp per litre. The peak torque is of 205Nm (151 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a newly developed six-speed manual gearbox, which offers quick, precise shifting through closely stacked ratios.

The other option in terms of gear box is the Lexus IS-F-inspired six-speed automatic transmission, with shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel, combines direct response with an extremely fast shifting speed of only 0.2 seconds.

Source: Toyota

December 7, 2012

2013 NASCAR Chevrolet SS Unveiled

2013 NASCAR Chevrolet SS has been finally unveiled and with this Chevrolet opened a new chapter in its racing history. The racing car is powered by the famous small block V-8 engine and it is a rear-wheel drive performance sedan.

As a matte of fact, the all-new rear wheel drive V-8 Chevrolet SS performance sedan will debut early next year. Furthermore, the Chevrolet SS is going to be the next in a long line of famed nameplates that Chevrolet has campaigned in NASCAR and it is going to replace Impala, which scored 151 wins from 1959-64 and 2007-12.

On the other hand, the limited production version of the Chevrolet SS is envisioned to be a 2014 model and we are going to see it in the showrooms in the end of next year. The brand has long used the SS (Super Sport) designation on high-performance models of some of its most enduring nameplates.

The SS designation was firstly introduced with the appearance of a Corvette prototype race car in 1957. Moreover, the first production vehicle with a SS optional package was the 1961 Impala. The car included enhanced chassis and suspension, power brakes, a steering column mounted tachometer and unique wheels and tires. Two years ago the SS designation returned to the Chevrolet lineup with the debut of the fifth-generation Camaro.

Another interesting fact is that Chevrolet has 702 victories in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series so far. No other manufacturer has achieved such number. Going back in time Fonty Flock earned the first win on March 26, 1955, at Columbia, S.C. This month at Texas Motor Speedway, the five-time series champion Jimmie Johnson achieved Chevrolet’s 700th victory.

Source: Chevrolet

December 7, 2012

D2Forged Aston Martin Vantage FMS-01

D2Forged Aston Martin Vantage FMS-01 is definitely a vehicle which a character such as James Bond would love to drive in one of his action scenes. And although he has never driven a Vantage, I’m sure that when he sees the looks of this one, he would regret he didn’t.

The car carries a unique spirit is due to its 4.7 liter eight-cylinder petrol engine. The V8 unit generates 426 hp (313 kW) and 490 Nm (361 lb-ft) and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox sending all that power to the rear wheels. And these numbers fit perfectly to the concept of what the 007 agent calls fast.

D2Forged enhanced the model in terms of aerodynamics and lowered suspension. In particular, the 20×9.5″ for the front and 20×11″ for the rear D2FORGED FMS-01 wheels provide the perfect finishing touch. Finished in an aggressive yet sporty matte black finish with chrome lip and matching black fasteners, the overall effect is simply perfect.

Source: D2Forged Wheels

December 7, 2012

SR Auto Ferrari 458 Italia Reaches China

Undeniably one of the most desirable cars in the world is the famous Italian one called Ferrari. Enthusiasts from all around the world appreciate the iconic brand regardless of their timezone, culture or ethnicity.

What we have today is a breath-taking tuning on the Ferrari 458 Italia. The car’s naturally-aspirated, direct-injection 4.5 litre V8 engine produces 578 horsepower (425 kW) at 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it effortless for it to reach a maximum speed of 320 km/h (198 mph).

Another important number here is the acceleration time which this Ferrari has for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and it is under 3.4 seconds. In fact, the engine it utilizes was nominated as the 2011 International Engine of the Year for its engineering excellence in terms of driveability, performance, economy and refinement.

The power of the 458 Spider is transferred to the road by Ferrari’s class-leading dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission through the sophisticated E-Diff, itself integrated with the F1-Trac traction control and high-performance ABS for maximum handling dynamics.

A very special client of the tuning company SR Auto coming all the way from China expressed his wish to modify his Ferrari 458. And it was immediately equipped with PUR 4OUR Monoblock Wheels in sizes 21×9 +38 for the front and 21×12.5 +56 for the rear. All are “dressed” in Modern Black color.

Source: SR Auto

December 6, 2012

Facelifted: Rieger BMW 1er Coupe

Rieger BMW 1er Coupe has new looks and the responsibility for this is only attributed to the German tuning company Rieger. The team developed an aerodynamic bodykit with a powerful upgrade for the already sporty bavarian.

Originally, the BMW model generates 326PS (240 kW) from its 3.0 liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. The power unit is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

But going straight to the point, the Rieger bodykit consist on a front bumper with splitter, side skirts and a rear skirt, which are available in ABS/Carbon-Look. All RIEGER prarts are delivered with mounting equipment and MOT certificates.

In addition, in terms of suspension optimization, Rieger chose the familiar KW coilover suspension kit. An optimum grip is provided by the 19 inch BBS CH-R wheels with Hankook S1-Evo tyres.

Source: Rieger

December 6, 2012

SchwabenFolia Volkswagen Golf VI R With Invisibility Cloak

Another tuning of Volswagen Golf VI R worth seeing is the SchwabenFolia Volkswagen Golf VI R. This time the people who made the transformation are those from car foiling company SchwabenFolia.

First of al they have increased the power of the Volkswagen, which originally generated 270 hp (199 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, and now is enhanced with the additional 60 hp to now 330 hp (243 kW).

A significant share of this power increase also has the customized handmade exhaust system with a 90 mm tube from turbo by F-Town Street Machines. In particular, the exhaust has two Capristo exhaust valves, which are controlled by the MFA XP in the speedometer. The system has a name which is Atomic Warbird and produces the impressive 130 dB.

Moreover, the vehicle is further equipped with the adaptive electric chassis control DCC, and it has been brought closer to the ground thanks to an H & R lowering. What catches the attention the most are the CH wheels in the dimension of 8×19 inches in powder Dormant Fire Red High Gloss with 235/35-19 Dunlop tires. Eventually, SchwabenFolia wrapped the car with foil in Urban Taupe Matt Metallic by PWF (Platinum Wrapping Film).

Source: Miranda Media

December 6, 2012

Electrified: Cam Shaft Volkswagen Golf VI R

Cam Shaft Volkswagen Golf VI R originally came from the factory with its 4-cylinder engine along with an exhaust turbocharger, which generated up to 270 hp (199 kW) as well as 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.

The specialist from Cam Shaft has transformed this Volkswagen into an artistic object. First, they have cooperated with the firm MTB-vehicle engineering which tuned the engine’s performance and it is now increased to 325 hp (240 kW) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. They have done this with their own software optimization level 2.

Secondly, platinum spark plugs and a downpipe including Sportkat make their essential contribution to the furious forward thrust of the power machine. Next, F2000 brake discs by Tarox and sport brake pads serve perfectly in powerful and effective way.

Furthermore, the springs by H & R and the Ultraleggera rims by OZ with adequate tires are those who connect the vehicle to the road. And at last, the foil called Electric Orange by BRUXSAFOL, brings about the last detail here, which makes this a special type of camouflage design stretching from the A-pillar towards the vehicle rear.

Source: Miranda Media

December 6, 2012

Petrolicious: San Francisco Skyline [VIDEO]

Ivan Jaramillo is the main character in the latest video of Petrolicious, besides his Nissan Skylines of course. For him driving is all about exhilaration and appreciating the moment. In fact, when he is in one of his Skylines he leaves all the problems aside and all that he does is to “feel” the driving excitement.

An important part of the experience is also listening to the car and the sound of the engine. And as a matter of fact Ivan says that there isn’t anything else in the world that can be compared with their sound.

Another benefit of owning such cars is that it draws people’s attention, and even if they don’t know anything about it still provokes excitement of seeing it. The aggressive exterior design undoubtedly contributes towards this.

In other words, everything resolves around the passion, depth, and love that this man has for its Skylines. This video portrays the enthusiasm and adoration which these remarkable cars create. But enough talk, check it out for yourself!

httpv://vimeo.com/54827764

Video Source: Petrolicious via Vimeo

December 5, 2012

2013 Nissan Sylphy G Launched

2013 Nissan Sylphy G has just been launched and it includes an elegant and sophisticated design and class-above comfort. Sylphy draws its power by the newly developed 1.8L MRA8DE engine, which is mated to a next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with sub-planetary gear. This combination delivers powerful and smooth driving.

On of the most noticeable feature of the Sylphy is its premiuml front grille. To the luxurious feel add the LED-accented headlamps, large rear combination lights and a flowing character line. All these features contribute to a sophisticated sedan style. In comparison to its predecessor the new model is 15mm lower in height and 65mm wider in width, giving it well-balanced sedan proportions.

Furthermore, the interior is even more spacious and comfortable. Sylphy’s high-quality, refined cabin includes a seamless instrumental panel and detailed meter design. The optimized interior layout creates ample rear legroom that is comparable to that of a sedan one class above.

In addition, the comfort of the occupants is further enhanced by the reduction of the vibration with strengthened body rigidity. This also enhances the quietness with efficiently placed acoustic insulation and utilization of a vibration-absorbing suspension.

Other features important to highlight here are the Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) system and air conditioner outlet for the rear seats. They create a comfortable cabin for all passengers. The improved visibility and ease of driving is deliverd by large windows and the slope of the hood, which allows the driver to easily grasp the vehicle shape.

2013 Nissan Sylphy G Specifications and Details:

Design:

• Three-dimensional chrome front grille with an imposing presence

• Front bumper with horizontal design, emphasizing great width and a sense of stability

• Headlights with six LED clearance lights that suggest the ‘power of eyes’

• Flowing character line that runs from curved front fender through the rear combination lights

• Electric retractable remote control body-colored door mirrors with integrated side turn lamps that are easily seen

• Rear combination lights featuring bold horseshoe-shaped design with fifteen LED lights expressing a stunning, high-quality feel

• A total of six available exterior colors, including a new color, Deep Iris Grey

Interior design:

• Instrument panel design gives a feeling of spaciousness

• Instrument panel features integrally molded upper-to-middle section, flowing curved surface and the use of soft pad trim to provide a premium interior feel

• ‘Micro-grain’ that reduces glare and provides smooth feel to touch and a relaxed atmosphere is adopted in the lower instrument panel and the upper side of the front door trim

• Adopted in all grades is easy-to-read Fine Vision Meters with a central color liquid crystal display showing various information, including ECO mode indicator

• Class-above high-quality feel achieved with carefully selected and combined materials used for the center panel finisher

Mechanism:

• Newly developed 1.8L MRA8DE engine adopted in all grades

• Powerful and smooth driving achieved by a longer engine stroke, improved combustion efficiency, improved intake/exhaust efficiency and reduced friction

• Fuel economy improved by 16% to 15.6km/L (in JC08 mode) compared to the previous model

• XTRONIC CVT adopted in all grades

Packaging:

• Front window glass expanded upward to provide easier viewing of traffic lights and signs

• Hood shape that makes it easier to see where the vehicle’s front end is

• Tilt and telescopic steering wheel for most appropriate driving posture (adjustable by 30mm backward and forward and 40mm up and down)

• 65mm added to the width and shoulder room increased by 30mm compared to the previous model – enhancing interior spaciousness and increasing door thickness, creating ample armrest space

• Large rear knee room where passengers can relax with legs crossed

• Newly designed flat rear seat back sides improve comfort and ease of egress/ingress when three passengers sit in the rear seat

• 510-liter luggage space capacity

Aerodynamics performance and comfort:

• New body shape with lower air resistance and optimized under floor airflow achieve coefficient of drag of 0.29

• Strengthened body rigidity and reduced vibration give improved quietness

• Clearance, which is a route where noise comes in, is thoroughly removed and noise insulators are efficiently displayed, delivering improved quietness

• Ride comfort improved by a longer suspension stroke and improved impact/vibration absorption performance

Key Safety and Environmental Technologies:

• Xenon headlights (projector type with low beam/auto-control) (standard on G)

• Optimum light distribution, multi-reflector halogen headlights (manual control) (standard on X, S)

• Auto light system (linked front wipers, dawn sensors) (standard on G, X)

• VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control <TCS functionality included>)

• LED High Mount Stop Lamp

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), Brake Assist

• High-strength body construction (Zone Body), body construction for pedestrian protection

• Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) 3-point seatbelts for all seats

• SRS air bag system for driver and front passenger

• Side air bag system and SRS curtain air bag system for driver and front passenger (standard on G)

• Based on JC08 fuel-economy mode

• Every grade achieves SU-LEV certification, emitting 75% fewer exhaust emissions than 2005 standards

• Achieves more than 95% recyclability rate (where recycling facilities exist)

Source: Nissan

December 5, 2012

2014 Audi RS 6 Avant Revealed!

2014 Audi RS 6 Avant has just been unveiled. It has been disclosed that it needs only 3.9 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. Its ultra-efficient downsized twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 TFSI engine will firmly cement its RS credentials by outrunning its mighty V10-powered predecessor and the acceleration time is what proves it.

At the same time the smaller unit will make 28.8mpg economy potential a reality. The new Audi model has a peak output of 560 hp (412 kW), which is reached between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, with a constant 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of torque available between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm.

The top speed here is 155mph, but it is possible to increase this top speed to 174mph by specifying the optional Dynamic package, and to go a step further still with the Dynamic plus package, where the top speed reaches 189mph.

Furthermore, the 4.0-litre TFSI is combined with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The latter includes shortened shift times and offering ‘Sport’ and ‘Manual’ modes in addition to the standard ‘Drive’ setting.

What’s more, the new RS 6 Avant will be the first Audi RS model which will include adaptive air suspension. The specially tuned set-up lowers the body by 20 millimetres, and incorporates controlled damping which takes into account road conditions, driving style and the mode chosen in the standard Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system, with which the driver can influence the function of key components in multiple steps.

As an option, there will be offered sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC). This system utilizes steel springs and three-way adjustable shock absorbers which are interconnected diagonally.

In addition, the brakes have also been improved. Four internally vented discs include a weight-saving wave design with a wave-like outer contour. The front discs measure 390 millimetres in diameter and are gripped by six-piston calipers which are available in either black or red. As an option a carbon fibre-ceramic brake discs measuring 420 millimetres in diameter are available. Their calipers are painted anthracite grey.

The RS 6 Avant runs on High-gloss, 20-inch, forged wheels in a seven twin-spoke design. Optional are the three 21-inch cast wheels with either high-gloss silver, polished black or polished titanium-look finish.

Numerous RS-specific design details mark the unique visual stance of the Avant. What captures the attention the most are the matte aluminium applications on the body, the matte black honeycomb radiator grille at the front of the car, the bumpers, the wings, the sill flares and the large roof spoiler. At the rear of the car, the diffuser and the two large, elliptical exhaust tailpipes round off the design.

And for those willing to further customize the look of the vehicle, there are two optional exterior design packages – Matte Aluminium or Carbon. Moreover, 2014 Audi RS 6 Avant is available in eight exterior colours, including the exclusive shade Daytona Grey matte.

The interior is of course elegantly trimmed and highly focused. The dial instruments include black faces, white dials and red needles. The key, the flat-bottomed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, the illuminated entry sills, the rev counter and the displays for the MMI and the Driver’s Information System (DIS) incorporate RS logos.

The footrest, pedals and switches in the MMI navigation plus terminal have an aluminium look which contrasts with the piano finish for the decorative bezel surrounding the retractable monitor and the carbon inlays.

Next, the RS sports seats have side bolsters, integrated head restraints and RS 6 logos. They covered in high-grade, honeycomb-quilted Valcona leather in either black or Moon Silver, or as an option they can be covered in an optional combination of black Alcantara and leather, and the centre sections feature diamond quilting.

The standard equipment is generous: xenon plus headlights, LED rear lights, a tyre-pressure monitoring system, illuminated entry sills, the RS-specific driver’s information system, the parking system plus with visual and acoustic prompts, cruise control, four-zone automatic air conditioning, MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, BOSE sound system, DAB radio and Audi Music Interface (AMI).

What will be available as an option is the following: LED headlights with a unique design, ceramic brakes, sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), the Dynamic packages, head-up display and a portfolio of high-performance driver assistance systems, as well as the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers and 1,200 watts of total power.

Source: Audi

December 5, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova