Lidia Todorova – Page 298 – Automobiles Review

2014 Ford Fiesta Unveiled

The new dynamic 2014 Ford Fiesta has just been unveiled, showing exclusively its sharper design and a host of exclusive technology features. Furthermore, the new Ford vehicle is going to offer its customers a wide range of advanced technologies.

For example, some of them include the voice-activated in-car connectivity system Ford SYNC, Active City Stop and the European debut of MyKey. It will also draw its power by the acclaimed 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and will deliver best-in-class fuel economy.

What the designers did here is to retain the popular and well-known visual appearance of the Fiesta, but at the same time giving it more sophisticated look. Fiesta’s face for instance is dominated by a trapezoidal front grille, bracketed by laser-cut headlamps with daytime running lamps that use LED technology.

In addition it also features a power-dome bonnet design. In addition to this the newly redesigned Fiesta also offers a harmonious and ergonomically enhanced interior. The car will also include advanced features such as Active City Stop system and Ford SYNC in-car connectivity system.

The latter also includes Emergency Assistance, which directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident. In the technology pack is also featured for the first time the MyKey, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk at the wheel.

In fact, this system also allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

Ford will reveal more details about the 2014 Fiesta at the Paris Motor Show.

Source: Ford

September 5, 2012

Aesthetics S or the New Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class carries a sculpture which is entitled “Aesthetics S”. Mercedes-Benz has just provided an artistic glimpse of the future design of the popular luxury saloon.

In the eyes of the viewer the aesthetics of the relief-like sculpture of the new car creates a three-dimensional world. The modern production is envisioned in three acts, which are going to be showcased at the Paris Motor Show at the end of the month.

The S-Class in general represents the latest state of the art in design and engineering. Even more, the typical lines of the S-Class have always expressed the peak of the automotive world. Of course, the new S-Class will continue the tradition.

The sculptural shapes are a classic feature of a Mercedes-Benz design. In the case of the “Aesthetics S” sculpture the designers decided to present the exterior of a future saloon in artistic way.

In general what the people behind the design did is to combine together the modern sense of status, sensual shapes and stylish sportiness in one car.

The shape of the new S-Class will be revealed at Paris Motor Show. It will be showcased via projected light reflections, which will create a three-dimensional world. In addition, it will put emphasis on the organic, naturally-occurring flowing forms of the luxury saloon.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 5, 2012

2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition – Pricing Announced

2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition is a luxury performance vehicle which has reached new heights by being more optimized than ever. It has been created especially for the business users of the brand.

The Infiniti meets all requirements, being efficient, powerful and balanced. The acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is covered here for only 5.5 seconds, which makes the M35h the world’s fastest-accelerating hybrid saloon in 2011 by Guinness World Records.

The fuel consumption is also impressive. That’s 40.9mpg on the combined cycle, but with zero consumption, and zero CO2emissions, when the innovative hybrid system employs silent all-electric power for driving in congested city streets.

A lot of standard equipment is featured in the car: Connectiviti+ navigation, Bi-xenon Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), rear-view camera, parking sensors and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), heated and ventilated front seats, semi-aniline leather seat trim, Forest Air® climate control, HDD Music Box and voice-recognition navigation, Bluetooth and USB connector.

The new M35h Business Edition is based on the M35h GT model. This means that it has the same 3.5-litre V6 hybrid drivetrain, mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. The power generated from it is 364 hp (268 kW) and the CO2 emissions are estimated of 159g/km.

Moreover, thanks to its 68 hp (50 kW) electric motor, lithium ion batteries and innovative twin-clutch layout, the M35h Business Edition is able to go even faster, further and for longer in silent, emissions-free electric mode than other hybrids.

In addition, the engine stop-start and regenerative braking system which is included here, ensures the car enters eco mode as often as possible.

2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Business Edition has a starting price of £42 020.

Source: Infiniti

September 4, 2012

2013 Tata Xenon Pick-Up Unveiled

Tata has just launched the new 2013 Tata Xenon Pick-up. The vehicle will be offered in both single cab and dual cab versions, conveying it’s with best-in-class visual appearance and at the same time operating fuel efficiently.

The power of this Pick-Up comes from its 3.0 Litre Common Rail or Turbo Direct-Injection engine, which deliver respectively a top speed of 120 km/h with peak power of 72 hp (53 kW) in the single cab and 115 hp (85 kW) in the dual cab, with a peak torque of 223 Nm (164 kW) and 300 Nm (220 kW).

Furthermore, the new Tata vehicle will deliver its customers best-in-class fuel efficiency because of its exquisitely engineered drive train. The Tata Xenon’s engines has a flat torque characteristics, and overdrive gearbox, radial tyres and the aerodynamic shape, which all contribute to high fuel efficiency.

To go further into details, the Tata Xenon single cab variant offers the longest-in-class body length of 8’4 inches. In addition to this it offers considerable loading height, 3-side drop load body which makes ease day-to-day operations.

The pick-up comes with 2-stage semi elliptical leaf in the rear suspension, which delivers good load carrying ability, with better ride comfort and handling. The single cab is also equipped with power steering, adjustable steering column and cushioned bucket seats in the front with adjustable lumbar support.

Next, the Tata Xenon dual pick-up model with fully-loaded features like HVAC, power windows, central locking, seats with lumber support, high-end cab trims as standard fitment. In addition, it is equipped with limited slip differential, which resists wheel spin on gravel or muddy roads.

All this contributes to a better control of the vehicle and makes it perfect for off-track usage. The stylized load body further enhances its visual appeal. The vehicle is targeted for applications involving both crew and cargo movement in a comfortable and safe manner.

Some of the safety features included here are the unique 3-layered body construction, crumple zones, a collapsible steering column, central locking, retractable seatbelts and side intrusion beams. They protect occupants in an event of a side impact collision.

For this range of pick-ups there are four trim colors available: Arizona Blue, Mineral Red, Arctic Silver, Arctic White.

Source: Tata

September 4, 2012

2012 Kahn Ferrari 458 Spider

2012 Kahn Ferrari 458 Spider is the latest conversion of the talented Afzal Kahn. This exquisite supercar is made even more exciting thanks to the superior craftsmanship of the tuner.

The Ferrari 458 Spider is shrouded in voluptuous silver couture. The modification here includes front and rear sections, ceramic brakes, wing shields, upgraded F1 gearbox and yellow brake calipers, which ensures a mightier presence on the road.

Hence, this convertible is the perfect choice for those who want to be seen and heard. Ferrari has ditched the fabric roof in favour of a sublime folding hardtop. In particular the roof folds in 14 seconds, and more importantly is 25kg lighter than its equivalent.

It has two moving parts that slot neatly into a gap between the engine and the seats. Furthermore, it needs relatively compact space to house the folding hardtop. This however means that there’s a small rear luggage bench.

The interior of course is more than outstanding. Inside is the “bespoke touch” of Kahn Design can be seen. In details, this particular vehicle comes with leather electric sports seats.

Next, the Ferrari rides on Kahn wheels, which sit perfectly on it. They convey the essence of the vehicle’s identity. Moreover, they were created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials forged technology. The 9×21 inch front and 12×22 inch Monza forged wheels are finished in silver color and fitting all original centre caps.

Source: A.Kahn Design

September 4, 2012

2012 SR Auto Infiniti FX35 Shows Extraordinary Stance

2012 SR Auto Infiniti FX35 is something we do not see in our everyday life. Extraordinary therefore is the most appropriate word to describe this very unique SUV.

This FX35 has a powerful output being equipped with 5.0 liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift). Hence it is absolutely effortlessly for it to develop 390 hp (287 kW).

This vigorous engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox and includes Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The FX is also equipped with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC®), Rear Active Steer, and Intelligent Brake Assist.

However, the tuners from SR Auto weren’t satisfied with these configurations and gave their best to enhance this Infiniti model! When it comes to lowering a vehicle, a coilover system is the best option available as one has the ability to control the height and dampening to the exact needs

BC Racing provided exactly what they were searching for. This means that they have adapted their BR series technology and developed a fully adjustable coilover system for the Infiniti FX35.

However unilke most coilover systems, nothing of the comfort of the FX35 was lost. Instead it was just adjusted. The effect was of course unmatched. This SR Auto Infiniti now has one-of-a-kind powerful stance never seen before.

In addition, the SR Auto Group added HRE 648R Wheels, which are twenty-two inch Satin Black Face Gloss Black Lips.

Source: SR Auto

September 4, 2012

2012 Graf Weckerle Mercedes-Benz SL 500 – Athletic Elegance Meets Maritime Attitude

2012 Graf Weckerle Mercedes-Benz SL 500 is a great example how exquisite and outstanding a car tuning might be. This Mercedes-Benz conveys entirely the competence and passion of the Graf Weckerle team when it comes to the absolute individual and classy refinement.

As an inspiration the tuners used the maritime theme for both the exterior and interior of the car. For instance many precious design details recite the sophisticated atmosphere found in marinas all over the world, giving the car an incomparable sporty and athletic yet noble appearance.

In order to bring the maritime design idea to life, the team decided to create a one-of-a-kind version of the Collection Sport forged performance wheels. A special white coating of the wheel disc was joined by polished aluminum wheel rims and chrome-plated wheel fasteners which match perfectly the polished wheel center cap.

Furthermore, the SL 500 was equipped with 9.0 x 20 inch wheels on the front axle and 10.5 x 20 inch on the rear axle. The tires fitted here are the 255/30 R 20 and 295/25 R 20 respectively.

In order to enhance the exterior of the German car they have finished it with a final maritime touch. This includes a hand-painted Graf Weckerle Coachline with an integrated Graf Weckerle brand logo. The color of the Coachline was navy blue.

Attention to the interior design has also been paid. It continues the maritime theme with the special leather color in navy blue. In fact, it covers almost the complete interior. The blue leather is further accented by contrasting white stitching and piping.

Graf Weckerle brand emblems have been additionally integrated into the original seat design. In fact, they were made of pure 750 white gold. To be more precise, the emblems were finished with white enamel which is carefully applied also by hand.

But this is not all that has been done on this 2012 SL 500. It was also equipped with progressive lowering coil springs which enhance both visual appearance and handling. An engine performance kit was included in order to optimize the performance of the car.

Source: Graf Weckerle

September 3, 2012

2014 Peugeot 208 GTi – First Official Pictures and Details

The first official images and details of the new 2014 Peugeot 208 GTi have just been released. The car debuted at this year’s Geneva Motor Show as a concept and showcased its elegance, style, compactness, occupant space and equipment.

The lucky 208 GTi owners will benefit from intricate choices of materials and colors. In addition to this, this Peugeot was defined on a widened track by 10mm at the front and 20 mm at the rear. As a three-door model, it is identified by bodywork components which improve the overall effect, with wheels that hug the arches and with body sills and wing extensions that enhance its visual appearance.

Another refinement here that many would love is the new visual light signature of the front face which now includes halogen headlamps, equipped with a latest generation light guide. These lamps include LED technology for the directional indicators and daytime lighting.

Moreover, the unique new 208 grille and on the GTi the mesh conveys more dynamism, making the lamps stand out. The overall front appearance is technological and endearing and at the same time more sophisticated than ever.

The sporty stance of the new 208 GTi is due to the refined gloss black rear skirt, the exhaust, which now emerges with a trapezoid chromed double tailpipe, the innovative design emphasizing the uniqueness of this model.

2014-Peugeot-208-GTi-651-2

The interior is predominated by dark color schemes with red highlights. The dashboard houses a high-mounted instrument panel with an innovative and distinctive light signature such as LED functions of the headlamps and dials surrounded with satin chrome beads.

The vents, the side decorations of the touchscreen, the dashboard decoration, the steering wheel insert, the seat belts, the front and rear door crossbars all blend with the same interior ambiance. The aluminium pedal bracket and footrest provide the final touch to this exquisite interior.

In addition, the seats combines full grain Club Nappa leather and Caro Weave cloth, made more dynamic by a red line detail. The driver here will feel very comfortable due to the cosseting seat structure, harnessed in black seat belts (with red edging).

Furthermore, the new model will deliver exciting driving thanks to the involving chassis dynamics, providing superb driving sensations. Springs, calibration of the shock absorbers, anti-roll bar, enhanced front subframe and rear crossmember rigidity, plus that the suspension and wheels are specific to this latest Peugeot GTi.

The car is fitted with 205/45 tyres, the 17 inch diamond Carbon wheels, with Storm paint and matt varnish. They house 302 mm ventilated discs at the front and 249mm at the rear, providing controlled and incisive braking.

More importantly, the new Peugeot GTi model is powered by the 1.6-litre THP 200 hp (147 kW) petrol engine. It works effortlessly through the reworked exhaust system.

This engine is mated to a manual gearbox with six, close-ratio gears. It has maximum torque of 275 Nm (190 lb-ft). This basically means that the 208 GTi has the potential of acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 7.0 seconds. Light in weight, which is only 1160kg, the 208 GTi achieves a real feat by emitting CO2 at just 145g/km.

Source: Peugeot

September 3, 2012

Pink Chevrolet Camaro Helps Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

Chevrolet Racing started a campaign which aims to raise breast cancer awareness. This weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway every lap run under the caution flag lead to a $200 contribution by Chevrolet to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative.

”At Chevy, we believe everyday heroes can accomplish extraordinary things, and it is in this spirit that we work to achieve a world without breast cancer”, said Don Johnson, vice president of Chevrolet Sales and Service.

There was a special car prepared for the event as well; it is a one-of-a-kind pink Camaro SS featuring the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer logo. And just as a reminder, in 2011, 64 caution laps at Atlanta generated $12,800 for the American Cancer Society.

Source: Chevrolet

September 3, 2012

Lancia Flavia “Red Carpet” Special Edition debuts at Venice Film Festival

During the Venice Film Festival the brand Lancia will make a debut of a special edition convertible of its model Flavia. The new car was designed in collaboration with Poltrona Frau, which this year will celebrate its one hundredth anniversary.

Lancia Flavia “Red Carpet” can be seen on show at the Festival both on the catwalk on the red carpet and inside the Lancia Café area. The vehicle is characterized by its seats and armrests which have been completely covered in red Pelle Frau® Pieno Fiore leather.

In addition, this “Red Carpet” edition model includes an elegant white livery which further improves the refined passenger compartment. This unique product will bring to the customers Lancia’s stylish design and attention to detail and the elegance of Pelle Frau® leather and the craftsman’s skill of the team at Poltrona Frau.

All has lead up to the enriched and improved interior of the new model. The combined forces of the two brands ended eventually in a coupe environment which is extremely elegant and emotionally “enveloping”.

And as we all know, Flavia’s spirit is already free and sophisticated. In particular, it is equipped with the 170 hp (125 kW) 2.4 litre petrol engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. This basically means that the new car is the perfect solution for people who would like to benefit from all that a coupe can give without compromising on the unique sensations only a convertible can bring.

Furthermore, the front wheel drive of this Lancia guarantees an exciting driving experience unparalleled by any other in its segment. Flavia also comes in one exclusive trim level which is “all inclusive”.

This means that it offers wide range of equipment as standard: from the top quality leather upholstery, electronic stability control (ESC) and electronic traction control, latest-generation ABS and four airbags (front multi-stage and side) to the ISOFIX mountings for transporting children in complete safety, the innovative Uconnect® multimedia system complete with satellite navigation system, and the sophisticated “Boston Acoustic Sound System”.

Source: Lancia

September 3, 2012

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is World’s Fastest Hybrid

2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid has been announced as the world’s fastest hybrid ever created. The reason for this is that it as just set a world speed record at 185 mph.

This remarkable result was achieved at the Bonneville Salt Flats. The Volkswagen was driven by Motor Trend Associate Road Test Editor Carlos Lago. In fact, the official speed that he had achieved was 185.394 mph (298.363 km/h).

This number was enough to announce that this was the “fastest speed ever achieved by a production-based hybrid car on the famed Bonneville Salt Flats.” However, “production-based” still means that the powertrain was modified by Volkswagen engineers.

The wheels were also made more aerodynamically inclined, however what exactly happened to the car in order to achieve this excellent result, wasn’t revealed.

In general Jetta Hybrid gets 45 miles per gallon and has a sprint time of 9.0 secondts for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h. It utilizes four-cylinder 1.4-liter turbocharged TSI gasoline engine. The latter generates 150 horsepower (110 kW) and is mated to a 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor.

Source: Prindiville

August 31, 2012

SR Auto Audi A6 Vossen CV7

Another exceptional car that SR Auto has just transformed is the famous Audi A6. This powerful A6 generates 245PS (180 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft), thus being able to cover the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.

An in order to make it even more aerodynamically inclined, the tuning team combined forces with Vossen wheels. The result is a great visual upgrade in the stance of this brand new Audi.

Vossen’s new CV7 model perfectly fitted the A6. The seven spoke wheel reaches from edge to edge create the perception of a larger diameter. In addition to this, these 20 inch wheels include a machined face paired with matte graphite windows.

This combination creates a balance of contrast between the wheels and the exterior, and sets the level of luxury higher than before.

Source: SR Auto Group

August 31, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova