Lidia Todorova – Page 280 – Automobiles Review

2013 Dodge Charger Daytona Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

2013 Dodge Charger Daytona is one of the best performance vehicles with the most distinctive visual stance and it is going to make its debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The reintroduced Charger Daytona will include two trim levels – R/T and R/T Road & Track, which will offer customers the unique style of the historic Daytona package with all the modern performance and technology.

Its powerful HEMI V-8 engine delivers exactly 370 horsepower (272 kW). The rear-wheel drive and iconic design, as well as the unique interior and exterior styling enhancements, perfectly combine heritage, performance and value.

The exterior colors are one-of-a-kind and include: Daytona Blue, Bright White, Billet Silver or Pitch Black. In addition, the Daytona package features special dark trim that builds upon the Charger’s iconic muscle car design. Satin Black adorns the front crosshair grille with heritage “R/T” badge, the custom vinyl hood graphic, roof wrap, rear R/T spoiler and the “DAYTONA” graphic on the rear quarter panels.

Furthermore, to be even more perfect the Daytona has to run on special set of wheels. Here the designers have chosen 20-inch five-spoke polished aluminum wheels with Gloss Black painted pockets.

Daytona models also include a ‘Daytona Blue’ engine cover, performance 3.06 rear axle ratio, high-speed engine controller, paddle shifters with sport mode and performance steering and suspension.

What about the interior? This Dodge‘s Road & Track trim features black performance Nappa leather and suede heated and ventilated seats with Daytona Blue stitching and piping. On the other hand, the R/T offers the same appearance in a custom sport cloth seat. “DAYTONA” is embroidered in blue into the upper front seat backs.

Even more, the 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch screen and gauges on the instrument panel can be easily seen, as well as the trim around the shifter and cup holders on the center console. All of them are surrounded by dark brushed aluminum trim.

The final touches here include a Mopar bright pedal kit, a 552-watt 10-speaker Beats Audio System and a special numbered “DAYTONA” badge on the instrument panel that features the build number of that specific Charger Daytona model.

2013 Dodge Charger Daytona will be available in dealerships in the beginning of next year and will be produced in only 2500 examples, each with a serialized dash plaque. It price will begin at $33 000.

Source: Chrysler

November 26, 2012

Superchips Gives More Horsepower to Vauxhall Astra GTC

Superchips Vauxhall Astra GTC now has extra performance for its new GM 1.4-litre petrol turbo powerplant. The technicians from Superchips, are offering a great ECU Remapping program, which enhances the 1364cc 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4T motor.

Through chassis dyno and road testing, Superchips has developed a performance Bluefin ECU remap which improves its power output while at the same time retaining factory failsafe protocols and reliability levels.

The Superchips Bluefin ECU remap produces additional 22 hp (16 kW) at 5428 rpm, with progressive increases throughout the rev range from just 1700 rpm all the way to the powerplant’s 6250rpm limiter. Torque outputs are similarly enhanced, with the Superchips remap producing noticeable gains from 2500 to 5000 rpm. In fact the overall increase in the torque here is 36 Nm (26 lb-ft) at just 2557rpm.

The consequence of the modifications done are more liveliness of the Vauxhall, more exciting driving and enhanced fast cruising, overtaking and load carrying performance .Yet this extra verve doesn’t come at the expense of fuel economy.

The reason is the combination of the additional low-speed torque and the extra efficiencies, meaning that if the car is driven in a “like for like” manner then standard fuel economy levels will be retained.

Source: Superchips

November 26, 2012

2014 Chevrolet Impala – Pricing Announced

Chevrolet’s flagship sedan – the 2014 Chevrolet Impala is set to go on sale next year’s spring. Being America’s best-selling sedan in 2011, the upgraded model shows off new sophisticated design features, more technology and safety equipment, ad at the same time keeps current strengths such as spaciousness and comfort.

A technology highlight here is the latest MyLink radio. The in-vehicle entertainment system adds an eight-inch color display screen which is entirely customizable. The system also adopts natural voice recognition.

Other new features in the 2014 Impala are the Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert. For the safety of the occupants, there are added ten standard airbags.

Furthermore, three direct-injection engine choices will be available: a 3.6L V-6, a 2.5L four-cylinder and a 2.4L four-cylinder with fuel-saving eAssist technology that is estimated to deliver 35 mpg. Here all of them will be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The trim line will include three levels – the LS, LT and LTZ. The starting price of the new 2014 Chevrolet Impala is $27 535.

Source: Chevrolet

November 26, 2012

2014 Madza MX-5 Facelift Goes on Sale

Facelifted 2014 Mazda MX-5 sportscar revealed a week ago will go on sale starting the beginning of next month, introducing its new front fascia, pedestrian-friendly bonnet, satellite navigation system, side airbags, and climate control air-conditioning.

During the work on the new version of the Mazda, the designers were determined to make the revised roadster even better looking and even more exciting to drive. First they’ve started with the front fascia, which received new aggressive front grille and new bumper design with a bold chin spoiler.

The result is a deeper and wider, but also – enhanced aerodynamics thanks to the reduced drag around the fog lamp and over the front tyres. Furthermore, the new new front-end design additionally improves pedestrian safety.

The new MX-5 is the first Mazda to be equipped with the newly-developed active bonnet system. When it detects a pedestrian, the bonnet instantly ‘pops-up’ to increase the crumple zone between the bonnet and engine, reducing the severity of pedestrian injuries.

In thee iconic model is also included the Japanese marque’s unique ‘Jinba Ittai’ handling finesse with a rear-wheel drive chassis that offers perfectly balanced handling and pure driving exhilaration. What’s more is the modified throttle, which enhances responsiveness and give more linear, nimble acceleration, especially when manoeuvring out of corners.

The vacuum brake booster was also optimized and now delivers better brake return control and front-rear load distribution, particularly when braking into bends.

Next to highlight is the equipment which now adds climate control air-conditioning and glossy dark grey dashboard panel and steering wheel inserts on every model. Optional equipment is also available: auto-dimming interior mirror and alloy pedal set.

Moreover, in terms of exterior the upgraded Mazda MX-5 includes refreshed palette of colours with three new additions: Sparkling Black Mica, Dolphin Grey Mica and Crystal White Pearlescent. Also available are the already familiar True Red Solid, Aluminium Silver Metallic, Copper Red Mica and Stormy Blue Mica.

And to make the driving experience exciting and thrilling, there is a choice of three powertrains: the 126 hp (93 kW) 1.8i MZR mated to a five-speed gearbox, and the 160 hp (118 kW) 2.0i MZR matched to either the smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or the ‘PowerShift‘ six-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission that allows manual control or a fully automatic mode.

Facelifted Mazda MX-5 Range has a starting price of £18 495.

Source: Mazda

November 23, 2012

Regula Audi R8 with Grandiose Bodykit

The latest work of the specialist from Regula Tuning is on Audi R8, which is the first mid-engined sports car is approved as a production vehicle for the road. With the mounting position of the engine in the all-aluminum body, a great weight distribution of 44 to 56 percent between the front and rear axle is achieved. In fact, with this model, in particular the prototype, Audi won at Le Mans five times.

And as you can see from the pictures the R8 Coupé modified here undergone miraculous metamorphosis. The specialists from the German city Schwerte enhanced this special car with aromatic polyamide body kit that brings the vehicle closer to the perfect race machine with road approval.

Furthermore, only raw materials with highest quality were utilized, whereas the permanent quality controls deliver high standard of product flexibility with also an extremely smooth surface.

Next, the central air inlet and the two lateral “fellows” under the headlights look as if they want to absorb everything that faces them in their way. Moreover, what’s pretty impressive is the wheel and tire combination.

Here it is 20 inch Oxigin wheels model Oxrock with a width of 8.5 inches at the front and 11 inches at the rear. The tires perfectly match them in size with the dimensions of 235/30 R20 at the front and 295/25 R20 at the rear.

And at last, but also very important is the enhancement which Regula made in terms of power. The Audi originally generates the significant 525 hp (386 kW), but after the tuning its output is increased up to 560 hp (412 kW).

Source: Regula Tuning

November 23, 2012

Hamann BMW 6-Series Upgraded with M Aerodynamic Package

German tuning company Hamann introduced a special M aerodynamic kit for the new BMW 6-Series – the F12/F13. The BMW itslef has much to offer. The top of the range – the 650i, produces 407 hp (300 kW) generated from its N63 V8 engine.

This means acceleration from a stand still to 100 km/h in just less than 5 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h while the max torque is 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) at 1750-4500. Now the car is even more appealing thanks to the Hamann’s aerodynamic components, which are adapted to the original M aerodynamic front and rear valances.

At the front it is utilized a competition front spoiler, which enhances the down-force. On the other hand, at the back an insert for the rear bumper offers space for four exhaust tail pipes. The other improvements here are regarding the font bumper, rear spoiler, tailgate cover and side skirts.

Source: Hamann

November 23, 2012

The Exclusive Vilner Audi S5

Extremely exclusive is the latest release of the exceptional tuning company Vilner. The tuners had just unveiled the astonishing work on their last project – Vilner Audi S5. And as we all expect – it is breathtaking!

Given that this Audi is powered by a 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 engine, it generates 333 hp (245 kW) at 5500RPM and has 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque at just 2900RPM. Within just 5.1 seconds the S5 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. But no figures can adequately describe the supreme free-revving character, the spontaneous response, the continuous power build-up, or the thrilling sound of its engine.

However, the car got even better because of the aspiring tuning that the specialist from Vilner made. First of all they took care of the exterior and painted the vehicle in matt grey. All of the plastic and black details here are painted in Black Piano Varnish, including the alloy wheels.

But what inspires me the most, when I come across a new modification by Vilner, is the interior. Here it has been entirely changed. The designers used black and brown leather and brown Alcantara.

To go even further into details, in the upper part of the seats can be seen an actual diamond double stitching, which speaks for precision of the work and craftsmanship. The same impression leaves the steering wheel, which was additionally modified with complementary elements. Its airbag and rear end are wrapped up in Alcantara.

Furthermore, the middle part of the tunnel was intentionally left black to highlight and separate the two rear seats. The plastic side skirts and the seat are also dressed in Alcantara, and this delivers more comfort and convenience.

At last, the great attention paid to the detail here is seen on the upper part of the seats where embroidery with the initials of the owner can be seen. The handles, which originally were in matt black color, now are made in black piano varnish and deliver more luxurious experience.

Source: Vilner via Facebook

November 22, 2012

Opel Adam Cup to Race Along with Opel Astra Cup

The famous Opel brand is going to return to the motor racing with the new Opel Adam Cup and new Opel Astra OPC. The goal of the company is to make a new model which is both technically sophisticated and reasonably priced, and at the same time which provides a good platform for young ambitious drivers to continuously develop their talent.

The first step towards this goal is the rally cup version of the new Opel ADAM, which has been closely specified to FIA R2 standards. Moreover, it will be utilized in the 2013 season. As part of the “ADAC Rally Masters” race series these customer cars will compete in a branded cup – the ADAC Opel Rally Cup.

Secondly, the new Ople Astra OPC Cup will be part of the VLN endurance championships. It is being made available from the 2013 season onwards as a racing version for customer sports. Important to mention is that both cup cars are engineered to match the “VLN Endurance Championship” standards which are the most popular grass roots racing series in Europe.

The cars will also take part in a brand trophy in their own class. The highlight of the season however is the 24-hour race on the Nuerburgring race track.

Furthermore, an especially attractive benefits package is being offered for private competitors. It is not limited to top performance and affordable cutting edge racing technology. What is more, the customers benefit from competitively priced spare parts as well as technical and organisational support on and off the race track.

Source: Opel

November 22, 2012

Performance Explosion: O.CT Volkswagen Golf V GTI Edition 30

O.CT Volkswagen Golf V GTI Edition 30 is a machine which after the tuning has become a performance explosion. The reason for this is the classic engine tuning that the professionals from O.CT Tuning performed on the Volkswagen.

After the upgrade the Golf V now generates up to 365 hp (268 kW). The maximum torque after the modification was increased up to 500 Nm (368 lb-ft), which only means that the Golf stands out among rivals effortlessly.

Furthermore, the vehicle’s electronics were also reprogrammed. There a special adaptation of the Level 3 software is effected. Next, an in-house intercooler was installed and the air induction system was changed.

Here, the intake system itself comes from the motorsport. Additionally, the special spark plugs and a modified injection system, as well as the acoustically stunning 76-mm racing exhaust system from turbocharger without cat and without central pot, fulfill their duty produce great sound.

Even more, the Golf’s aerodynamics were enhanced with O.CT coilover suspension V3, while the carbon made engine and battery covering deliver visual relaxation under the hood. And to sum up, the O.CT Volkswagen Golf V GTI Edition 30 offers true driving experience with pure forward thrust, accompanied by a terrific sound.

Source: O.CT Tuning

November 22, 2012

BMW ePatrol Concept Takes Part in Los Angeles Design Challenge

Another very exciting concept for the L.A. Autoshow just appeared, but this time from the powerful German brand BMW. For the creative competition they had to create the ultimate 2025 highway patrol vehicle, which is the BMW ePatrol Concept. The vehicle gives a glimpse into the forceful power of innovation and future thinking.

The futuristic patrol cars should be created on the following set of criteria: future needs for advanced technology; speed and agility on future freeway systems; creativity of the solution; and meeting a specific region’s emission standards and environmental sensibility (including maintenance and recyclability).

Initially the work of the designers began through the envisioning a 2025 scenario. There will definitely be more traffic, faster vehicles, and vehicles with alternative drive trains. In addition, the design team was inspired by the partnership between a patrol officer and their canine. The clogged highways today and in the future brought the attention on a solution to increase accessibility.

In short, the BMW ePatrol Concept focuses on a modular structure and drone technology that improve both teamwork and accessibility. The main structure can deploy three drones. Firstly, the top drone is positioned above the main structure and is a flying drone. The other two are one wheel vehicles attached to the rear.

In the case of a pursuit, the patrol officer sitting in the two passenger main structure can use either the flying drone or one of the single wheel drones to chase the suspect and report back data to the main structure.

There is an option when all three drones are being utilized. Then, the main structure can continue to function. Furthermore, all drones have added protection thus sending an impulse to another vehicle and disabling it.

The exterior design of the BMW is also impressive. The designers achieved powerful stance with an aerodynamic aesthetic and flowing lines. On the other hand, the interior design was inspired by a woven structure made of aluminum wire inside carbon fibre and polymer resin.

Moreover, it is visible that the seats create a significant connection between driver and architecture. Next, the interfaces within the interior are touch screen and in order to bring about enhanced protection to the patrol officers, windows are not included in the vehicle.

At last, instead of windshield there is a large screen which can communicate crucial information like accidents or route information, and the large screen in the interior serves as a monitor on which data from the drones can be displayed.

Source: BMW

November 21, 2012

2013 Peugeot RCZ Sport and GT With Official Launch

2013 Peugeot RCZ made its official debut at September’s Paris Motor Show and now is going to be launched in two levels – Sport and GT. The new version of the sports coupe now includes a dramatic update to its front face, enhanced specifications, a wider choice of equipment options. Of course the facelifted Peugeot model will offer new colour and trim combinations.

First of all, the RCZ Sport features 18 inch “Original” alloy wheels, dual-zone air conditioning, rear parking aid and USB box with Bluetooth. This rich specification is enhanced further by automatic lighting, including ‘Approach’ and ‘Follow-me-home’ features. The new interior enhancements include half leather and leather/ Alcantara trim treatments.

Secondly, the GT level is fitted with 19 inch “Technical” alloy wheels. It also includes interior sports kit, complete with sports steering wheel and gear lever. Simple leather continues to define the interior of GT with the addition of an optional Cohiba Brown colour, on both simple and integral leathers. Furthermore, optional choices here are the matt black roof arches, body transfer decals and more alloy wheel options.

2013 RCZ has a starting price of £21 595 for the Sport version and £23 995 for the GT. The 260 hp Peugeot RCZ R is going to be launched towards the end of 2013.

Source: Peugeot

November 21, 2012

Isuzu Dakar D-Max Set to Compete in the Famous Rally

Isuzu D-Max Dakar is one of the most spectacular and powerful pick-ups ever built, and it will participate in the Dakar Rally – one of the most gruelling races on earth. The event will happen in January next year.

The vehicle is based on the production Isuzu D-Max 4×4 double-cab, but it has increased performance due to the new 3.0-litre (2,994cc) 16-valve common-rail turbo diesel engine. It produces output of 242 horsepower (178 kW) and 589 Nm (435 lb-ft) of torque. The powerplant is matched to a four-wheel drive system and a sequential five-speed Hollinger gearbox and Xtreme rally clutch.

Further enhancements regard the chassis, which includes custom-built, full-length eight millimetre aluminium skid plates, while the steel cab body is fitted with an integrated roll-cage and carbon-fibre panels that shield the pick-up’s key components.

The immediate stopping is ensured by the additionally added DBA Kangaroo Paw ventilated disc brakes with cross-drilled discs and Harrop aluminium racing calipers. Isuzu D-Max Dakar rides on 16 x 7-inch ROH Trojan alloy wheels, shod with Toyo Open Country M/T-R tyres. And to sum up the result of these enhancements, it is a great acceleration time from zero to 100 km/h in seven seconds. The top speed is 190 kph.

Technical specifications:

Body and construction
Base vehicle	Isuzu D-Max 4×4 double cab
Body	Isuzu steel cab body with integrated roll-cage and carbon fibre panels
Chassis	Garland Motorsports-modified Isuzu D-Max chassis
Underbody	Custom-built, full-length 8 mm aluminium skid plates
Engine and transmission
Engine	Isuzu-developed 2994cc in-line DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel
Power	242 horsepower (180 kw) @ 4800 rpm
Torque	589 Nm (434 ft/lb) @ 2000 rpm
Cooling	Davies Craig electric water pump with Adrad custom cross-flow aluminium cab-mounted radiator with dual electric fans
Induction	Isuzu turbocharger with intercooler mounted in original radiator position
Gearbox and clutch	Five-speed Hollinger sequential gearbox and Xtreme rally clutch
Fuel tank	Custom-built dual aluminium fuel tank with a total capacity of 320 litres (85 gallons)
Drivetrain, suspension and damping
Front differential	Isuzu rear housing, modified to suit independent front suspension and drive-shaft
Rear differential	Isuzu rear axle and housing, modified to suit ladder-bar rear suspension
Front suspension	Custom-built independent, torsion-bar using Isuzu lower control arm, King off-road racing reservoir shocks and adjustable stops
Rear suspension	Custom-built coil-sprung ladder bar with adjustable King off-road racing, remote reservoir shocks and adjustable stops
Brakes, wheels and tyres
Brakes	DBA Kangaroo Paw ventilated disc brakes with cross-drilled rotors and Harrop aluminium racing callipers
Wheels	16 x 7-inch ROH Trojan alloy wheels
Tyres	Toyo Open Country M/T-R
Interior
Telemetry	Racepak data gathering and engine control
Seats	Recaro motorsport shell
Steering wheel	Momo three-spoke

Weight
Weight	2300kg (approximately)
Performance
0-100km/h (60mph	7 seconds (estimated, on dirt)
Top speed	190 kph

Source: Isuzu

November 21, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova