Lidia Todorova – Page 36 – Automobiles Review

DF Automotive Tunes Flying Uwe’s Chevrolet Camaro

DF Automotive Chevrolet Camaro Front View What happens when you combine a Chevy Camaro, a martial artists and experts in tuning? The answer is probably something like the car we see here. To be more precise this Camaro is property of the martial artist Uwe Schuder, better known as the “Flying Uwe”. He is not “just another” fitness or kung fu star, but has joined the filming of “Transformers”. This eventually made him fulfilled his automobile wish dream to own the famous Chevrolet muscle car.

Of course, the 26-year-old star turned had to make his Camaro “one-and-only” and for this reason he turned for help to DF Automotive. They stepped in by offering and applying some custom made goodies, giving the car more purposeful look and individually.

To start with the wheels, they are all black and feature seven double spokes. The size is 21-inches and the manufacturer – y SCHMIDT-Felgen. Standing under the name Gambit, they were fitted with Continental SportContactTM 6 tires in 255/35-21 on the front and 295/30-21 on the rear axle.

DF Automotive Chevrolet Camaro Rear View

As we can see, DF Automotive also changed the exhaust. Made by Supersprint and installed by the DF Automotive, this exhaust weighs less and sounds better, thus optimizing car’s performance. The last change made here (but not the least of importance) is the addition of KW variant 3 coilovers with adjustable pressure and tension stages. They lend the car very special driving dynamics.

In this configuration, I’m sure that the Camaro is the perfect ship for the Flying Uwe.

Source: DF Automobile

January 13, 2016

Acura Precision Concept Shows New Human-Machine Interface Approach [VIDEO]

Acura Precision Concept Front View Acura Precision Concept is something we were longing to see revealed at the North American International Auto Show. The reason for this is that it isn’t just another concept, but it is a project which points towards the bolder innovative design direction of the brand. And precisely, towards future Acura sedans. As a matter of fact, the car was developed by those two designers who played crucial role in the creation of the latest-generation Acura NSX supercar, Dave Marek (Acura global creative director) and Michelle Christensen.

The concept was developed to express the DNA of the brand: “Precision Crafted Performance.” In other words, the vehicle highlights the details and is an intersection of modern, sheer surfaces and muscular, organic sculpting. The exquisite performance of the concept is represented via its ultra-low and wide stance, long dash-to-axle ratio, deeply sculpted surfaces and at last (but not least) the brand-new Diamond Pentagon grille.

The athletic stance of the car is strengthened by its deeply sculpted side surfaces and supported by the 22-inch wheels and tires over which we see swelling rear wheel arches. The future car also includes signature lighting designs back and front. At the face we see its Jewel Constellation LED headlights composed of organically arranged fractal elements, while at the rear there is back with floating LED taillights.

Futuristic Interior & HMI

Acura Precision Concept Interior

Inside, there is a continuation of the approach of the design and an expression for this is “quantum continuum” theme. It is further highlighted by the absence of a b-pillar. After opening the large door rocker panel, we see an interior with surfaces with striking tones, floating rear seats, rear center high-mounted stoplight, and a lot of modern detailing.

We must pay more attention also to the double-layered instrument panel, the high-contrast front seat surfaces, and the hand-crafted audio speaker grilles made of exotic wood. And have we mentioned that the seats are race-inspired as is the steering-wheel, which features paddle shifters and Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) controls. The interior also includes a floating center meter, a driver’s head-up display, a cantilevered center stack and an ultra-wide, thin and curved center display screen.

At last, we should say a word about the Acura HMI Concept, which is company’s approach for Acura’s digital human-machine interface (HMI). It will enable more intuitive and advanced connection between man and machine. The wide and curved center screen can be operated via floating touch pad on the center stack. The HMI makes everything easier because upon entry, it scans each occupant and selects personalized features and functions, like maps, audio and performance settings.

httpv://youtu.be/q1s9wVPuwgQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Acura

January 13, 2016

Infiniti Reveals the Concept Based Q60 Sports Coupe

Infiniti Q60 Rear View Infiniti Q60 sports coupe has been finally unveiled. The place is of course the currently on going North American International Auto Show (or NAIAS for short) in Detroit. You can have a taste of what’s to drive it even from the pictures. By the way don’t miss them in our gallery below. The Q60 is undoubtedly designed and engineered to perform. It is based on the concept that was revealed at the same event one year ago. This daring design you see on the images just give a little hint on the exhilarating performance and dynamics that the car offers.

Elegant but at the same time bold, the exterior of the model is all about power expression. Its proportions and taut, muscular lines are designed to complement its character. Speaking of it, at the heart of the Q60 is the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, taken directly from the exclusive “VR” powertrain family.

SEE ALSO: Infiniti Reveals Q60 Concept

Even better, the six-cylinder powertrain will be offered in two power ratings: 300 horsepower or 400 horsepower, both channeled through the Q60’s rear wheels. As a matter of fact the latter is expected to offer one of the best power-to-efficiency ratios in the sports coupe class.

Infiniti Q60 Front View

The driving experience? Could you expect little less than engaging? Q60 balances ride comfort and agile handling, supported by Infiniti’s new Dynamic Digital Suspension. This technology has been engineered to provide crisp handling responses and superior ride comfort.

Another very cool option featured here is the second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering. It brings enhanced levels of steering feel and feedback to the Q60, while the Drive Mode Selector gives drivers the option to personalize the steering’s precise responses to their wish.

At NAIAS Infiniti has also debuted the Q50 sports sedan and the QX60 crossover facelifts. So if you are somewhere near, go see them!

Source: Infiniti

January 13, 2016

MUGEN Previews its Honda-Based Lineup Prior Tokyo Auto Show

Mugen Civic Type R concept Side View MUGEN has revealed its lineup of Honda-based vehicles, which will be displayed at the Tokyo Auto Show next year. There are exactly five new models in the range of MUGEN modified cars including the most exclusive Mugen Civic Type R concept. The other four are the Honda S660 MUGEN RA Prototype, Mugen S660, Mugen modified Honda Vezel and a sporty Mugen Step WGN Spada.

Speaking of the devil, the most anticipated car is of course the Type R. I can’t hide my excitement, since this is one of the most emblematic cars on Earth. Basically, the Mugen Civic Type R concept features some exclusive components that make the car even more attractive.

MUGEN didn’t disclose many details, but they are currently developing parts for the car. What we can tell from the pictures is that the concept will feature grille inserts, brand new hood as well as sportier rear wing. We should also mention the new alloys and the red brakes at the front.

The next modified by MUGEN vehicle is the crossover Honda Vezel. We don’t know much about it but it features sporty body kit, some modifications to the grille and an exclusive exterior color called Premium Crystal Red Metallic. Third is the Step WGN Spada, which shows-off with revisions to its front grille and bumper, as well as sports exhaust and huge 18-inch alloys.

Honda S660 MUGEN RA Prototype Front View

Besides the MUGEN Type R, another exciting car is the Honda S660 MUGEN RA Prototype, which is performance-modified and features some cool styling enhancements. We see that there is too a revised grille, new alloys and very cool leather seats with brand’s name as an embroidery.

At last, but not least is the MUGEN S660, which includes more aggressive front bumper and fender vent, new side skirts and ventilated hood. At the rear we see a brand new rear spoiler, while the hard top can be spotted at first glance.

Stay tuned for more exclusive news prior Tokyo.

Source: Mugen

December 30, 2015

Volkswagen Releases a Video Teaser of the CES Concept Car

CES Concept Car by Volkswagen (Teaser Video) After having released the first official teaser image of the CES concept car in the mid of December, Volkswagen has uploaded on their official YouTube Channel a video showing a little bit more of the vehicle. The company also stated that the “Internet of Things is making our cars more and more intelligent”. This leads us to the thoughts that the car will be interactive and we’ll probably see connectivity features never experienced before. After all, the Consumer Electronics Show is all about innovation and technology.

Basically, we do expect to see how helpful the Internet can be in our mobile life when speaking about cars. This will happen from 6^th till 9^th of January at the world’s leading trade fair for innovative technologies in Las Vegas.

It was also disclosed that at 2016 CES Volkswagen will focus on networking and long-distance electromobility as well as the next generation of connectivity. Everything we are speaking of will be integrated in a completely new concept car, which will illustrate the major changes that the car is set to go through in the next few years.

VW CES Concept Car - First Teaser Image

What is more important however is that this world premiere will mark the beginning of a new era of affordable long-distance electromobility. Additionally, the innovative features will demonstrate the advantages to the customer that the brand will be offering in the near future due to the increasing interconnectedness of the automobiles.

Besides the concept show car, Volkswagen will also debut at the event brand new display and operating concepts, which will be making their debut in Las Vegas. There will also be the latest developments in in-car infotainment which are on the verge of being launched onto the market. An instance is the Golf R Touch concept. But anyway, the show approaches and will soon speak of itself. Here’s the video:

httpv://youtu.be/l6MYED6nCSY

Source: Volkswagen via YouTube

December 30, 2015

One-Off Range Rover Sport is Caractere’s Gift for the Winter Holidays

Caractere Range Rover Sport Front View This is Range Rover Sport by Caractere and unfortunately it’s not free. However, this is the last project that the tuning company is releasing for the year and it seems as the perfect present to make just ahead of the winter time to your dear ones. The modified Range Rover Sport is big, stable and in addition is made sportier and more beautiful due to the impressive body kit by Caractere.

The upper crust British off-roader now features a styling to envy. In particular, the kit comprises of a front bumper, which includes large intakes with integrated mesh. In addition, it is also optionally available for vehicles with the surround camera system, ACC or PDC.

Caractere Range Rover Sport Side View

There is more: new rear valance with faux diffuser and integrated exhaust tailpipes contribute for way more powerful stance and attitude. At the rear, it is impossible not to see the new in-house made roof spoiler that is made of components from high-quality PU-RIM, and almost rounds out the styling enhancement done here. But there is more…

At last, we should talk about the wheels. But first, have you spotted that the Range Rover has extended wheel arches? If you have you aren’t wrong, because they come to complement the more purposeful 22-inch Caractere CW1 alloy wheels. They come in combination with 50 mm (front) and 70 mm (rear) spacers and perfectly fill the big arches.

Now that’s a nice way to travel though the snowy roads, isn’t it?

Source: Caractere

December 30, 2015

Mercedes-Benz SLC Exclusively Gets a Stylish Night Pack

Mercedes-Benz SLC with Night Pack It was about time for Mercedes to reveal some additional tweaks for its recently introduced SLC model. The new extra equipment is called Night Pack and it is definitely worth the look. Both the new SLC and the new styling kit will be available to order and in dealerships in the spring of 2016.

The good news is that the pack will be available for as many trim levels as possible, including the SLC 250 d, 180, 200 and 300 as well as a slightly different AMG Night Package for the Mercedes-AMG SLC 43 that stands at the top of the range.

The “Basic” Night Pack

To go directly into the details, the additional components here include a diamond grill that comes in chrome with blade in high-gloss black. There is also a front splitter, exterior mirror housings and rear diffuser in high-gloss black.

Furthermore the package adds 18-inch AMG alloys in multi-spoke design and in high gloss black-paint. They are mated with appropriate tires: 225/40 ZR 18 at the front and 245/35 ZR 18 at the rear.

The SLC 43 Night Pack

Mercedes-Benz SLC with AMG Night Pack

The appearance of this additional styling kit is due to the fact that the aforementioned components can not be added to the AMG variant of the car. So, Mercedes-AMG had to come up with a special AMG Night package.

It is of course optional and adds a front apron with front splitter and fins again in high-gloss black, trim strip diffuser and exterior mirror housings in the same color and AMG sports exhaust system with black chrome tailpipes.

Now the new SLC looks even more attractive than before, doesn’t it?

Source: Mercedes-Benz via blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com

December 29, 2015

BMW to Introduce AirTouch at Consumer Electronics Show

AirTouch by BMW BMW is getting ready for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which will take place between 6^th and 9^th January in Las Vegas. The company will happily present there a so called Vision Car, which will have a single purpose: to demonstrate the interior of the future including a modern user interface. Why is this needed? Because of the faster and faster advance of networking between driver, car and environment, which is becoming more intensive.

The first instance of new technologies that works in favor of networking is the AirTouch. This is a feature, which provides intuitive control of entertainment, navigation and communication functions. The driver or any of the occupants can use only a basic gestures made with a flat hand to control it.

In other words, the AirTouch also allows the display in a vehicle to be utilized like a touchscreen, but with one difference, one doesn’t have to make contact with the surface. This is possible via sensors, which record the hand movements in the area between the central console and the interior mirror. As a result, drivers or occupants can change the focus on the surface of the large panorama display. What is more, sensors on the instrument dashboard allow 3D control.

How to confirm an action: first – with a simple gesture, or secondly through a concealed AirTouch button, which is located on the rim of the steering wheel. It is positioned on the left and it is easy to reach with the thumb. It also lights up when a menu or icon can be activated and a single tap is enough to activate the desired program or change a setting.

But this is not all. There is another button like this specifically intended for the front passenger. It is located at the side sill in the door area and it allows passengers to use one hand to navigate through the menu and the other hand to confirm inputs very quickly.

Another highlight in the new AirTouch technology is the intelligent menu control, which the number of steps needed to make a selection. Basically, AirTouch “guesses” which selection and control steps are required next and displays them in advance.

A year ago, BMW presented “BMW Gesture Control” at the CES, so AirTouch seem to be a continuation of their good work. The previous gesture control enabled simple movements of a finger to carry out actions such accepting phone calls and was available in the new BMW 7 Series. It is obvious that the AirTouch is another big leap forward for the brand.

Source: BMW

December 29, 2015

G-Power Says Goodbye to 2015 with Special BMW M3 RS E9X

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Front View G-Power has released its last project for 2015. As the year went by we witnessed some great tunings and this one here is another example of the exquisite work of the specialists. Under the attention of the masters is the BMW M3 E9X considered as the perfect base for a track day car. In combination with their SK III supercharger and the carbon-fibre aerodynamic parts, the M3 easily becomes M3 RS – a “serious player in the supercar league”.

Faster & Faster

There are two ways to make a car faster. The first one is to add power to its engine. The second: to reduce its weight by replacing some of the components with lightweight ones. But if you want to make an already faster car even faster, then you should first add the extra power and then use some carbon-fiber… or the other way around. This was basically the idea under the work of the experts at G-Power.

Carbon Manifesto

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Rear View

Te tuning company undertook an in-house CAD development program to manifest one-off carbon-fibre aerodynamic components for the BMW M3 E9X. As you can clearly see, the largest carbon-fibre component on the car is the vented Carbon Venturi bonnet ‘RR’. It is not only the largest but also the lightest you will find on the market with weight of just 8.4 kg. This is a saving of 2.6 kg. In addition, this component was designed to dissipate the extra heat produced by the uprated engine.

G-Power ‘RS’ carbon-fibre front spoiler is available with or without air intakes and it reduces the lift over the front axle. At the rear, the ‘RS’ carbon-fibre boot lid in GTS style saves almost 5.0 kg… and due to CNC-machined aluminium struts it weighs just 1.2 kg.

Supercharged Power

2015 G-Power BMW M3 RS E9X Engine

G-Power SK III supercharger system is increasing the power output of this BMW so dramatically that it can be mistaken with some sort of rally car. Basically the horses were pumped up to 740 hp (544 kW), while the torque – to 700 Nm (517 lb-ft).

If you are familiar with the capabilities of the M3, then you have already grasped how huge the power increase is. There are 320 hp and 300 Nm in addition. The huge extra power is achieved through a displacement increase from 4.0 to 4.6-litres, followed by the installation of an ASA T1-724 supercharger with a high efficiency charge-air intercooler.

The powerplant is complemented with in-house crafted titanium exhaust, which incorporates a pair of 100-cell metal sport catalysts. The weight saving is 26 kg over the original steel system.

At last, we should mention that the M3 RS E9X runs on HURRICANE RR forged alloy wheels, sized 9.0 and 10.5×20-inches at the front and rear respectively, and coupled with 245/30ZR20 and 295/25ZR20 Michelin tires.

G-POWER M3 RS E9X Fast Facts:

740 hp / 544 kW at 8100rpm. (+ 320 hp / 235 kW)
700 Nm at 5,900 rpm. (+ 300 Nm)
Displacement increase: 4.0L to 4.6L
V-max: over 340 km/h
0-100 km/h: 3.7 sec.
0-200 km/h: 9.5 sec.
M3 supercharger system SK III
Venturi hood “RR” in visible carbon
Carbon front spoiler “RS” in visible carbon
Carbon decklid “RS” in visible carbon
Carbon rear wing “RS” in visible carbon
20-inch forged wheels HURRICANE RR

Source: G-Power

December 29, 2015

Rare Mercedes-AMG A45 Edition 1 Sees More Power and Torque Than Ever

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC Front View Posaidon has been very active lately (see in the link below) and this time they have sent us a very exclusive project, which again involves a Mercedes. However, what is particularly very cool about this car and what has impressed me much is that the tuning company has worked with the rare Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 Edition 1. The changes featured here not only involve power uprating but also feature some additional upgrades which we’ll discuss in details.

The Excellent Tracktool

The Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC is the perfect basis for power uprating because it initially offers impressive performance and exclusive optical properties. This is the reason why the tuning company did not hesitate to develop right away a breathtaking tracktool.

Posaidon’s tracktool-package features a complex overhaul of the four-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged engine. The result is impressive increase in power, which I will reveal you in a moment.

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG A45 4MATIC Rear View

The boost was made possible via the addition of upgraded turbocharger, catless downpipe and revised the engine control software that includes the fine-tuning on a dynamometer. In addition, the tuners also optimized the charge air cooling and the airflow for the intake air.

As a result, the increase in power is up to 485 hp (357 kW) and 555 Nm (410 lb-ft) of torque. In combination with the reinforced transmission, the powerhouse now reaches a top speed of 310 km/h.

Other Goodies

Nevertheless, this impressive performance requires an upgraded deceleration means. So, Posaidon offers an upgrade for the original braking system or special two-piece potted discs. At last, the conversion of the A45 Edition 1 includes in-house made speed-trap update for the navigational system, unlocking of the TV-Mode and the deactivation of the Start/Stop-ECO mode.

Source: Posaidon

December 28, 2015

Volkswagen Has Great Gifts for the Polo, Golf GT and R-Line, and Passat Models

Volkswagen Golf GT Edition Side View Volkswagen has released generously-equipped Polo Match model, which comes to replace the famous SE trim. In addition the high-spec Golf GT Edition and R-Line Edition replace the GT and R-Line trims, while the new Passat SE Business comes to offer more functional upgrades including the Discover Navigation. Here are the details.

Volkswagen Polo Match

The car adds extra style and function. As mentioned it comes on the place of the popular SE trim and will be offered in three- and five-door body styles, wide range of engine and transmission options, as well as added extra equipment.

The standard features here include cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, front fog lights with static cornering function, tinted rear windows and new 15-inch Stratford alloy wheels. Note that we have no pictures of the Polo Match, and the one above is depicting the Golf GT Edition.

Volkswagen Golf GT Edition and Golf R-Line Edition

Golf R-Line Edition Side View

The next huge changes involve the iconic Volkswagen Golf VII, which now has brand new Golf GT Edition and Golf R-Line Edition. They replace the trim levels with the same name but add extra standard equipment. Basically, the Golf GT Edition gains extra 18-inch Durban alloy wheels and panoramic sunroof.

On the other hand, the Golf R-Line Edition also rides on larger 18-inch Serron alloys wheels and gets a panoramic sunroof.

Volkswagen Passat SE Business

Volkswagen Passat SE Business Front View

Volkswagens also debuts the Passat SE Business trim, which boosts the appeal of the multi-award-winning Passat and Passat Estate. The standard equipment added here includes Discover Navigation, front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors and tinted rear windows.

The Pricing

Volkswagen Polo Match has a starting price of £12,735; the Golf GT Edition is priced at £23,915, while the Golf R-Line Edition can be order from £24,860. The cars are set to arrive at showrooms in early 2016.

Source: Volkswagen

December 28, 2015

The Dark Side is Strong and Calls for Chevy Trax

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is definitely a big hype and the might of the Dark Side has even gone to the minds of the designers at Chevrolet… metaphorically of course. The latest addition in Chevy’s lineup is the Trax Midnight Edition, which contributes to the versatility of the small SUV. With it’s blacked out styling it seems that has taken inspiration of the famous movie series.

The car is based on the LTZ trim level and includes a lot of cool styling components inside and out. The exterior of the Midnight Edition features black wheels, black bezels and beltline molding, door handles of the same color as well as black rear license plate appliqué.

Speaking of the interior, we should also mention the seats which have been trimmed with gray accents. The other thematic feature is the floor mats that have gray piping.

As a matter of fact, Chevy Trax is unique vehicle which fuses the agility of a small-car with the utility and convenience of an SUV. It offers up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo space and is driven by the 1.4L turbocharged engine. The powerplant is efficient but at the same time 138 horsepower (102 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm) strong. In details, the small displacement engine offers an EPA-estimated 34 mpg highway for the FWD models.

Another advantage of the Trax is the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, which in my opinion is one of the coolest connectivity features included in Chevy’s options.

If you are already interested, then you should know that 2016 Chevrolet Trax Midnight Edition is scheduled to go on sale in late February. The Midnight package is priced at $500 USD, while the Trax LTZ has a starting price tag of $26,125 USD.

Source: Chevrolet

December 28, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova

Futuristic Interior & HMI

The “Basic” Night Pack

The SLC 43 Night Pack

Faster & Faster

Carbon Manifesto

Supercharged Power

G-POWER M3 RS E9X Fast Facts:

The Excellent Tracktool

Other Goodies

Volkswagen Polo Match

Volkswagen Golf GT Edition and Golf R-Line Edition

Volkswagen Passat SE Business

The Pricing