Lidia Todorova – Page 295 – Automobiles Review

Suzuki S-Cross Concept Teased Again Ahead of its Debuts in Paris

Another teaser image of the new Suzuki S-Cross Concept has just been released. This is a concept vehicle which fits in the C-segment crossover models.

The new S-Cross will make its debut in less than 10 days during the International Paris Motor show, where the visitors will be in fact the first to witness this new crossover by Suzuki.

No much of information and details have been shared so far. However, one is sure, the concept will embody an “Emotion x Quality x Aerodynamics” design theme. This design philosophy is characterized by distinctive dynamic lines which start from the front bumper, sweep across the doors, and continue to the rear of the body.

Furthermore, what Suzuki has revealed so far, the crossover will have a cutting-edge appearance. The design elements which suggest stability and solidity contribute towards this visual stance.

Additional information about the S-Cross will be announces at the Suzuki Press Conference. The 2012 Paris Motor Show will be open to the press on 27 and 28 September and then to the general public from 29 September to 14 October.

Source: Suzuki

September 18, 2012

SR Auto Porsche Panamera GTS – Project Crimson Crusader

SR Auto Porsche Panamera GTS Crimson Crusader is another astonishing tuning from the fellows from SR Auto. This time the emblematic Porsche model is equipped with outstanding Davinci Red PUR Wheels.

Not only this high contrast between the crimson color and the white exterior is breathtaking, but it also aims to bring a bit of color back to the wheel industry. After the successful SR Auto Ferrari 458 Italia – Project Ice Blade, it was more than obvious that contrasts in color are much appreciated.

The platform for this second rendition is the unique Porsche Panamera GTS. The latter is powered by a 4.8 liter naturally-aspirated V8 which generates 430 hp (316 kW) at 6700RPM and 520 Nm (385 lb-ft) at 3500RPM.

The power is put on the road by 7-speed Porsche PDK gearbox through AWD system. Speaking about acceleration, this GTS runs from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds pursuing its top speed of 288 km/h (179 mph).

In terms of sizing and suspension, the tuners have also done some improvements. The car has been lowered, and that lead to the selection of an appropriate wheel size that would accommodate large wheel wells while maintaining a comfortable ride.

In particular, they have given this Panamera twenty two inch profile Modern Black Face, Davinci Red Lip PUR 4OUR DEPTH wheels paired with the Basics lowering system.

Source: SR Auto

September 18, 2012

2013 Mazda CX-9 Debuts at Australian International Motor Show

2013 Mazda CX-9 is being given the core elements of the new design philosophy of the brand, named KODO design. The SUV is to be revealed at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show on 18th of October this year.

The new Mazda model is a crossover sport-utility SUV including a distinctive sporty appearance, a high-quality cabin, the flexibility of three-rows, and Mazda’s exciting “Zoom-Zoom” driving dynamics.

Furthermore, the new 2013 Mazda CX-9 retains the great utility and dynamics of the current model, but incorporates the new “KODO – Soul of Motion” design theme at the front and rear. This of course contributes to sportier styling and stronger presence.

Many improvements have been done onto the new CX-9. The craftsmanship in the interior design expands further the feeling of quality and refinement. In addition to this, the passengers and the driver will benefit from wide range of standard equipment such as a new infotainment system.

It includes the latest audio, navigation and speech-recognition systems based on the Human Machine Interface (HMI). Moreover, advanced active-safety features, such as Forward Obstruction Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, and High Beam Control System, help drivers recognize and avoid danger.

What is more, the new crossover will draw its power from the MZI 3.7-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle will also adopt the full range of SKYACTIV technologies. In fact, this is the first model to be equipped with Mazda’s unique brake energy regeneration system, called i-ELOOP.

Source: Mazda

September 18, 2012

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept to be Revealed in Paris

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Concept is the newest addition to Mercedes-Benz‘s family of electric vehicles. It is going to make its first world appearance at the Paris Motor Show, showing that it is a battery-powered electric variant of the B-Class.

Being in just a concept stage of development, this vehicle is one of the first models to incorporate the term “Electric Drive” into its model designation. In future, the lettering will adorn the boot lids of all battery-powered electric passenger cars from the brand.

B-Class Electric Drive offers comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The difference with the common B-Class is the so-called Energy Space in the floor. It is positioned in front of the rear axle and ensures that the concept vehicle offers the same amount of space inside.

In addition to this, the Energy Space ensures safe and space-saving means of accommodating the powerful lithium-ion battery. The latter also has a beneficial effect on the vehicle’s centre of gravity.

In particular the car is equipped with a 100 kW electric motor whose powerful 310 Newton meters of torque provide for attractive driving dynamics over a range of 200 kilometres. The battery can be charged at any standard domestic 230 V power outlet or at a 400 V high-voltage terminal.

The family-friendly electric car is nearly ready for series production, with the market launch already planned for 2014. The Paris Motor Show will also feature the world premieres of the production versions of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive and the smart BRABUS electric drive.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 18, 2012

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door to Debut in Paris

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door is set to debut at this year’s Paris Motor Show in the end of the month. The new generation i30 is the third member of the i30 family, which up until now consisted only of its siblings – the five-door hatchback and the Tourer.

What’s different here is that the three doors give this Hyundai more sporty styling. The exterior of course incorporating Hyundai’s “fluidic sculpture” and shows sharply-raked beltline, more angular glasshouse silhouette and longer front doors. All this gives more dynamic profile.

What’s new here is the black-finished mesh insert and central bar, which accentuate the hexagonal grille, now flanked by new, sportier fog lamp clusters consisting of the spots connected to LED daytime running light strips. The same design approach is continued in the clusters, and the front-end design is completed by a newly-profiled lower bumper.

At the rear, one can see an updated lower bumper area with new horizontal, sculpted fog lamps. They contrast the upright units of the five-door. These lights combined with the new black insert at the bottom of the bumper create the impression of a wider, sportier rear design. Exclusive 16-inch alloy wheels complete the visual appearance.

In addition to this the new i30 includes a wide range of standard equipment. The ride and handling were updated as well, and in addition to this the settings of the FLEX STEER system will help them change the steering assistance depending on their preference and prevailing conditions.

More importantly, the new generation i30 is offered with a choice of four engines and five power outputs, mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. At the top of the powertrain range is the ‘U-II’ 1.6-litre diesel engine, generating 128 hp (94 kW).

2013 Hyundai i30 Three-Door will be officially unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show on 27th of September.

Source: Hyundai

September 17, 2012

Dodge Charger Pursuit Equipped with Advanced All-Wheel-Drive System

2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit will now offer an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine. The system includes a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system. This helps in improving the balance performance and fuel economy.

This special edition of Dodge will meet all police pursuit durability cycle set for RWD models. This in fact ensures that the car can reliably handle the extreme conditions seen in police use.

Charger Pursuit includes two high-performance engines which deliver great levels of power, refinement, technology and fuel efficiency. Equipped with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine it generates 370 horsepower (272kW), 390 lb.-ft. (528 Nm) of torque.

This basically results in acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds and up to 25 highway mpg thanks to the innovative four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology.

In addition, the car has a superior ride and handling. It includes the second-generation large car rear-wheel-drive architecture with performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling NIVOMAT shocks, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

In fact, the Dodge was developed with the guidance of the brand’s Police Advisory Board. Therefore it is no surprise that it includes a mobile-command interior with unique features such as Vehicle Systems Interface Module for easy equipment integration, heavy-duty police-duty front seats and column-mounted shifter with Auto Stick.

In terms of safety and security, the Charger offers uncompromised equipment, which features the following: standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers and driver’s knee bag.

At last, the Dodge Charger Pursuit can also be equipped with Mopar’s police equipment packages as a standard. Police fleet customers will be able to start ordering the new model featuring AWD for the 2014 model year.

Source: Dodge

September 17, 2012

2013 Buick Enclave Priced at $39 270

2013 Buick Enclave is going to offer its new customers modern luxury style and advanced technology. The vehicle got upgraded with new styling, more standard equipment, added safety technologies and IntelliLink connectivity.

The new Buick is being offered in three different equipment groups. They all include wide range of standard content including a seven-inch Color Touch radio with IntelliLink, high-intensity discharge headlamps, Rear Parking Assist, a Rear Vision Camera, remote start, a power liftgate, front-center air bag other luxury features.

When purchased the Enclave with the Leather Group, the customer gets additionally the following equipment: leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, memory seat settings and Side Blind Zone Alert with Cross Traffic Alert.

Next, the Premium Group includes all standard and leather group equipment, but also adds the following: 19-inch chrome clad wheels, articulating headlamps, a Bose premium audio system, cooled front seats, power-folding side mirrors and a power tilting/telescoping steering column.

As an option, the 7- or 8-passenger SUV can be equipped with all-wheel drive, navigation and a trailering package. In addition to this the new LED daytime running lamps and LED-accented taillights add design and technology to the exterior, while new ambient interior lighting adds a cool Ice Blue glow to the cabin.

For smoother ride and improved handling, there were added dual-flow dampers at the front of the vehicle. They control the suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions.

The starting price of the 2013 Buick Enclave is $39 270.

Source: GM

September 17, 2012

2013 Smart Forstars makes world premiere at Paris Motor Show

The exclusive and indescribably beautiful 2013 Smart ForStars is going to make its first world appearance in Paris later this month. The electrically driven vehicle is a coupé with room for two people and plenty of storage space.

But why it carries this new name? It is because the newly developed glass roof above the passengers that gives a clear view of the starry sky. At the same time it hints at the integration of a video projector in the front bonnet.

The colour of the expressive coupé is painted in the “alubeam rouge” color. This creates an outstanding contrast to the matt metallic titanium colou of the tridion safety cell. Furthermore the 60 kW magneto-electric motor delivered by smart BRABUS electric drive makes the zero-emission smart forstars agile and lively. The new Smart model also retains the compact dimensions which are typical for the brand; it is exactly 3550/1710/1505 mm in length/width/height.

The wide range of technologies is also featured in the car. The media player of the projector integrated in the front bonnet is operated via Bluetooth® from an iPhone®. A high-quality sound system with additional loudspeakers in the ventilation openings behind the doors enables the drive-in cinema experience.

It is obvious that the new Smart model has striking new appearance and in fact its silhouette offers a look at brand’s future design philosophy. The rhombic design of the front and rear lamps is grabs the attention immediately.

A newly created detail is the “eyebrows” with new U-shaped look above the front headlamps. The charging socket for the high-voltage battery is found inside the right-hand tail light, whilst the left-hand one has space for a beverage can.

One of the most striking design features here is the glass roof above the passengers’ heads. It joins seamlessly with the glass cover over the cargo area which opens upwards.

Shiny black trims that continue below the side skirts draw the attention to the wheel cutouts. The new vehicle runs on Michelin sports tyres in 245/35 ZR 21 size.

And if one takes the look at the interior, one should have the feeling as if they are in a spaceshoip from the future. Sleek, taut surfaces in mother-of-pearl white combined with precisely designed technical functional elements in brushed aluminium are all around the cabin. The “alubeam rouge” creates the link with the exterior.

Very stylish and functional, Smart ForStars has seat shells, which are open in the middle and are covered with a soft fabric throw giving them a hammock-like seating feel. The graphic elements and different red tones of the covers show a progression and thus underline the dynamism and the very trendy aspect of the vehicle.

The seats are wrapped with high-quality white bag leather with exquisite white piping. Another sophisticated contrast here is the featured perforated leather in the door paneling.

Undeniably, the cockpit boasts aerodynamic styling. The control and display elements are oriented to the driver. An interesting element is that the two-spoke steering wheel is open at the top.

The rear-view mirror is replaced by a smartphone. It is placed in a holder at the top of the windscreen. The driver can see the road condition behind with the help of an integrated video camera. The smartphone also serves as a media source and controls the projector.

At last but not least, the new 2013 Start ForStars Electric drive brings more driving excitement to a new level and moreover has a zero local emissions. The electric drive of the car is based on the innovative drive concept of the smart fortwo BRABUS electric drive.

The output of the magneto-electric motor here has been increased to 82 kW (60 kW). With 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque it boasts powerful, lag-free acceleration, agility and driving excitement. The vehicle has a top speed of around 80 mph and the lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 17.6 kWh.

Source: Smart

September 15, 2012

2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept to Make Official Debut in Paris

2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept is the limited edition model of the popular Audi SUV. The vehicle will make its official first appearance in Paris later this month and is envisioned only as a limited 50-car production run.

Furthermore, the Sq5 is equipped with 3.0-litre bi-turbo TDI engine, which generates 313 hp (230 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) between 1,450 and 2,800rpm. This means that the Audi model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds on its way to the top speed of 155mph.

In fact, the Audi SQ5 TDI is the new top model in the Q5 model series and also the first S model in the history of Audi with a diesel engine.

In addition to this, the performance SUV will showcase new design features in the interior and an exclusive exterior finish as a limited production run. As you can see this exclusive concept is colored in stunning Aral Blue crystal effect shade, which conveys feeling of depth.

The exterior mirrors here are in aluminium look, and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights come as a standard. The four exhaust tailpipes dominate the rear of the vehicle.

On the other hand, the interior of the SQ5 TDI Audi is equipped with leather multifunction sports steering wheel, gear lever gaiter in black Fine Nappa leather with accents of contrasting stitching in snow white, black sport seats covered in Fine Nappa leather with contrasting stitching in snow white and black, and woven leather in the centre section of the seats.

In addition to that the designers have also added finished in snow white Alcantara headlining, blind for the sunroof and inlays, and applications in the doors. At last, the open-pored veneer has been specifically treated in order to bring the attention at the grain. The door trims and the entry sills carry Audi exclusive badges.

The starting price of the new limited edition 2013 Audi SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept is €92 000.

Source: Audi

September 15, 2012

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet Brings More Driving Excitement

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet is the latest “air-cooled” 911 equipped with its familiar flat-six soundtrack. In addition, the featured Gemballa GT package compliments the excitement on the driving experience.

At the core of this tuning is of course Gemballa’s GT aerodynamic package. The transformation here begins with new, front bumper/spoiler section with three large cooling air intakes, and large lip spoilers. This results in more stabilizing downforce at speed.

The connection between the new front and the rear is emphasized through the organic lines of the front spoiler, which extend into the deep side skirts of the Porsche. The new rear bumper/valance includes a recessed panel. It has a strong top and bottom horizontal lines, which visually put emphasis to the width of the car.

Other exclusive features contributing to the new visual appearance of the car is the upright reflector lights, which are positioned at each end of the panel and give a functional meaning to its extremities. In fact the new composition gives the Porsche more three-dimensional stance.

A diffuser here sits between Gemballa’s stainless steel exhaust system made from stainless steel. The latter has a deep voice thanks to its valve-operated sound control feature and gives the car the soundtrack to match its looks.

All of the featured in the package aerodynamic components are made from top grade carbon-fibre. However, no additional upgrade was made on the motor. Still, even with the standard motor, the Cabriolet is faster from point to point thanks to the improved sports suspension and brakes.

The 30mm shorter springs are calibrated in order to operate with the factory PASM (Porsche electronic damping control system), while the brake system is highly resistant to fade and allows to set later braking points.

At last, this car runs on GForged-one alloy wheels with their choice of “diamond cut” or “gunmetal” finishes in the eye-catching 21-inch diameter size. Thanks to modern forged, lightweight construction, they weigh less than the factory 20-inch wheels, whci results in improved ride and handling.

Gemballa Porsche 991 Carrera S GT Cabriolet Details:

Displacement: 3,800 cc
Power: 400 hp at 7,400rpm
Maximum torque: 440 Nm at 5600rpm
V Max: 301 km/h (299 km/h with PDK)
0-100 km/h: 4.7 s (4.5 s with PDK)
Elasticity (80-120 km/h): 6.2 s
Car body: GEMBALLA GT aerodynamic package
Exhaust system: GEMBALLA sport exhaust system with valve control (choice between three or two tailpipes)
Brakes: GEMBALLA high performance brake system (by Brembo)
Wheels: 21-inch “GForged-one” -one-piece forged alloy in diamond cut or gunmetal finish.
Tyre size: (f) 245/30ZR21, (r) 305/25ZR21 (GEMBALLA recommends Michelin tyres)

Source: Gemballa

September 15, 2012

S-C-P Mercedes-Benz E-Class in Ellectric Yellow

S-C-P Mercedes-Benz E-Class comes in the stunning color named Ellectric Yellow. The company which hides behind the tuning is the S-C-P, which is the short abbreviation for Schulz Car Professional. The tuners foiled the Mercedes-Benz in Electric Yellow Metallic matt delivered by Cam Shaft Premium Car Wrapping and the result is its attention grabbing appearance.

This distinctive vehicle is a rebuild over the AMG styling. The professionals from S-C-P shift the edges of the four wheel arches about 1,5 cm outwards, before the E-Class gets complete painting in the original MB color Diamont green pearl.

The next transformation which followed is over the entire exhaust system. Now it comes up with ingredients from PP-Exklusiv without a center silencer in the 4 pipe design. The cat-back here is of course in stainless steel.

The air filter box was modified as well. Furthermore, the front lights and the illumination of the rear registration plate are to be retooled to LED technology. Regarding the chassis there are added the Bilstein B8 sports absorbers and pressed KAW springs.

All this results in 7,5 cm deeper front axle. At the rear axle custom made B6 shock absorbers were installed. At last to be noted is the unique wheel tire combination: Crownjewel rims by PP-Exklusiv in 10,5 x 20 with 4 inch drop center and 235/30-20 Ventus tires by Hankook at the front axle or rather in 11,5 x 20 with 5 inch drop center and 265/25-20 at the rear axle.

Source: Miranda Media

September 14, 2012

BBR Mazda MX-5 Super 180 Receives Engine Tuning Package

BBR Mazda MX-5 Super 180 is the latest enhancement done by the Mazda performance tuner BBR. The package named “Super 180” delivers extra response, power, driveability and excitement and generates substantial performance increase.

In details the BBR “Super 180” upgrade consists of the following components: BBR stainless steel 4 into 1 exhaust manifold, BBR 2.5 inch stainless steel exhaust centre section with high flow metallic sports cat and centre silencer, BBR stainless steel rear silencer with adjustable 3.5 inchBBR branded tailpipes, High flow BBR performance panel air filter in standard Mazda airbox, BBR StarChip ECU remap.

The standard 158 hp (117 kW) 2.0i Mazda MX-5 when equipped with the upgrade gains additionally 22 hp (17 kW). This means that it takes a peak power to a maximum of 180 hp (134 kW) at 6800 rpm.

This engine conversion produces power gains throughout the rev range, without detracting from the user-friendly nature of the car. Extensive dyno testing has proven that power gains begin from just 1750 rpm and build progressively up to the 7500 rpm rev limiter.

This package also extracts more torque from the MX-5’s 16-valve powerplant. This actually gives incredible and superior driveability and throttle response. The tuned car produces an impressive 27 Nm (20 lb-ft) more than the original, with peak torque of 159lb-ft arriving at just 4250 rpm.

The stainless steel exhaust system in addition is developed in such way that it reduces back pressure to a minimum without the negative “droning”. Moreover, the clever design of the tailpipes allows them to accommodate different bumper options or aftermarket bodykits.

Another optimization here is that now the car is even more efficient. Here BBR has deactivated the standard exhaust gas recycling system with the aim to reduce engine inlet temperatures, purify the intake charge and further improve fuel efficiency.

Source: BBR

September 14, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova