Lidia Todorova – Page 37 – Automobiles Review

Kia Releases One-Off Sportage Inspired By X-Men’s Mystique [VIDEO]

Kia Sportage X-Men Apocalypse Front and Side View We all know the link between Kia and X-Men. Since both brands have worked together for several projects already it is therefore logical to expect that the automobiles manufacturer will release an “X-Men: Apocalypse” themed car. It was of course designed as an advertisement of the movie which we will see in theaters next year in May. And here it is, shown in its full glory ahead of its Australian Open debut.

The unique vehicle is based on the Sportage model and it uses the character Mystique as an inspiration. You can now grasp why it features this exocentric blue “snake-like” exterior. Other cool styling elements include the emblem “X” on the redesigned front grille as well as on the tailgate, two-tones for the roof and a lot of black accents here and there (take a look on the wheel arches). Contrasting yellow body accents and a set of sporty wheels round out the exterior design scheme.

Kia Sportage X-Men Apocalypse Rear View

Although we are not familiar what powers this particular Kia Sportage, we know that when it debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year it was available with two engines. I bet that the character of Mystique will chose the stronger one wouldn’t she?

The first variant is driven by a naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This unit produces 181 hp (134 kW) and 175 lb-ft (237 Nm) of torque. At the top of the range we have the Sportage SX Turbo, which is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with four-cylinders. This one is stronger and boasts 241 hp (179 kW) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. The transmission options are six-speed manual or an automatic.

If you haven’t watched the trailer of the X-Men: Apocalypse, you can do this by viewing the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/COvnHv42T-A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kia

December 23, 2015

Ford Confirms the Launch of Falcon XR6 and XR8 Sprint Models

Ford Falcon XR Sprint Teaser Ford Falcon XR Sprint is making a big noise on the web right now and the reason for this is the first released teaser image by Ford Australia. Although it shows only the “Sprint” badge of the famous car, it also confirms the forth-coming release of the limited edition vehicle. Precisely, the car will be launched next year in a special edition variant, which of course will have a limited run. So this is big, isn’t it?

What we know is that the car will be introduced as an XR6 model variant and it will be powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder petrol unit. The engine will be linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. But this isn’t all. The better part of the news here is that along with the XR6 model, there will be an introduction of a XR8 version.

The XR8 will be more powerful, because it will be driven by the supercharged V8 engine connected to a six-speed manual transmission as a standard or an available automatic one. It was also confirmed that both Falcons will feature power increase that will be accompanied by stronger brakes.

Moreover, Ford Australia also plans to give the Falcon XR Sprint new styling equipment by adding exclusive wheels and exterior stripes, bespoke interior and “Sprint” badging almost everywhere, including on the seats and a special “Sprint” plaque for the engine.

Ford Australia president and CEO Graeme Whickman said that the Falcon XR Sprint is made for the fans, and precisely that the “limited-edition series … will be highly regarded by Falcon fans”. He expects that these performance Fords will be highly collectible.

Stay tuned because more details about the Falcons are coming very soon. The Sprint badge pays tribute to the Falcon heritage and the original model, sold throughout North America in the sixties. The same badge was utilized for the famous Australian Falcon from the 1993, the ED XR8, which had optimized V8 engine, extreme suspension and was produced in a limited run of 300 units.

Source: Ford

December 23, 2015

Posaidon Ensures that There is an excess of 700 HP for the Mercedes-AMG C63 Station Wagon

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG C63 Station Wagon Front View Posaidon is a young tuning company which is fond of optimizing Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This time the attention of the specialists got the Mercedes-AMG C63 and C63 S in their station wagon versions. Note that in the gallery below is depicted only the C63 variant. They have chosen these two, because of the potent twin-charged 4.0 liter V8 engine, which in the C63 produces 476 hp (350 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque.

The more powerful C63 S is capable of 510 hp (375 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft). Both cars have a factory limited top speed of 250 km/h, which can be raised to 290 km/h with the AMG Driver’s Package.

M177DE40AL

With performance tuning running in their blood, the experts at Posaidon decided to make something more impressive for the massive V8. This is why they have applied the M177DE40AL aggregate, which helps the C63 and C63 S achieve 700 hp (515 kW) and 890 Nm (657 lb-ft) of torque. The result is better acceleration time, which now jumps to 3.4 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. The top speed is taken even further – to 343 km/h.

Posaidon Mercedes-AMG C63 Station Wagon Engine

This “performance explosion” is assisted also by the in-house made turbochargers and the upgrade for the charge air cooling. What is more, the tuning company applied an exhaust system, which connects directly to the turbochargers and features motorsport catalysts.

The engine map was optimized and now includes an optional deactivation of the start-stop mode, done by remapping the original engine control unit of the M177 engine. In addition, Posaidon optimized also the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed-sports-transmission or if the customer wishes there can be installed an upgrade rear differential for the non S models. The latter delivers better traction of the driven rear wheels through its increased barrier effect.

At last we should mention that the tuning studio offers the available speed-trap update. It integrates comfortably into the COMAND Online navigational system and makes everything a little bit easier.

Source: Posaidon

December 23, 2015

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Beautified by SR Auto Group

SR Auto Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Side View The New Prince is the nick name of this Mercedes-Benz AMG GT tuned by the specialists at the Canadian studio SR Auto Group. The car looks amazing even without modifications, but in sake of individuality this car has received some minor updates. And we do not want to see more, since this AMG GT has it all.

Considered the “angrier and younger brother” of the Mercedes-Benz SLS, the AMG GT was one of the most awaited and definitely satisfying introductions this year. The car features many benefits, but it is the most impressive in its performance figures and engine capabilities.

Speaking of which, the production variant of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT comes equipped with the newly-developed AMG 4.0-litre V8 engine connected to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. In this configuration, the car is capable of producing 462 hp (340 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. The production AMG GT also reaches a top speed of 304 kmph and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4 seconds. When going 0-200 kmph the car needs 11.5 seconds.

SR Auto Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Rear View

The main focus of the tuning team therefore was on suspension and wheels, since they decided that the Mercedes got everything that it needs in terms of power and felt the body itself was styled perfectly from the factory.

The first thing was to add new suspension parameters. This has happened with the help of directly from H&R, which made sure that the Mercedes receive a new set of lowering springs. From there on, the specialists fitted the car with a set of double staggered two piece PUR 4OUR.M2 alloys.

They come in a special finish called Matte Anthracite but also have a gloss black inner barrel and monaco gold hardware. If you wonder about their size, well it is 9×20-inch at the front and 12×21-inch at the rear. Simple things make everything more stylish and beautiful, don’t they?

Source: SR Auto Group

December 22, 2015

Volkswagen Allstar Special Editions Celebrate 2016 UEFA

Volkswagen Allstar Special Editions - The "Soccer" Team Volkswagen has just released a very cool new range of special editions called Allstar. It is inspired by football and comes to celebrate the 2016 UEFA European Championship. Unfortunately, the cars were introduced to Germany only, despite that the beautiful images show a photo-session in Paris. And there are still no details, whether these cars will be offered in other European countries. Nevertheless, I’m sure that soccer fans will enjoy the efforts of Volkswagen. Here are the details.

Just like a real football team, there are exactly eleven model variants included in the Allstar editions lineup. These include the following (in alphabetical order): Beetle, Beetle Cabriolet, Golf, Golf Sportsvan, Golf Variant, Golf Cabriolet, Jetta, Polo, Scirocco and Sharan. All of them will carry a special “Allstar” badge on their B-pillars, which will signify that they differentiate from the others.

Volkswagen Allstar Golf

The additional details on these special editions include several styling changes as well as some aided interior comfortability. On the outside the cars received fog lights and “Linas”-style alloy wheels. We have already mentioned the Allstar badging on the B-pillars…

The interior has been made a little bit better thanks to the “Allstar” door sill plates and a Climatronic climate control system. Due to the added winter package, the cars also get heated front seats and windshield as well as headlight cleaning system. On the optional side, there is the Allstar Plus package that will further spoil the senses of the driver and the occupants.

Which is your Allstar player?

Source: Volkswagen via Facebook

December 22, 2015

Alpha-N Performance Releases EVOX Upgrade for BMW 4-Series

Alpha-N Performance BMW 4-Series Front and Side View Alpha-N Performance has prepared an interesting Christmas present for those of you who have BMW 4-Series. It is called EVOX power upgrade and is suitable for the 435d and 435i models. And by the way, with the replacement that BMW made, I mean – substituting the 3-Series Coupe and Cabriolet with the 4-Series, the company further differentiated these sportier variants from the four and five-door models. They look fantastic and the driving experience they offer is one-off.

The engine upgrade pack offered by Alpha-N Performance is now ready to infuse the BMW 4 Series models with more performance. Under the hood of the BMW 435i we have the TwinPower Turbo straight-six, which has a stock 306 hp (225 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Basically, the Alpha-N EVOX PowerPlus ECU tuning box takes this to 367 hp (270 kW) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft).

Alpha-N Performance BMW 4-Series Rear View

Powering the 435d is the six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo diesel engine. It has a stock power output of 313 hp (230 kW) and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. With the EVOX box in place, these numbers jump at 374 hp (275 kW) and 740 Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. With the improvement of power we also expect to see better acceleration times. However, Alpha-N Performance did not say any details regarding these matters.

A larger intercooler was also installed to balance the enhanced performance. The chassis Öhlins Road&Track coilover suspension, which is entirely adjustable and allows lowering of up to 25 mm. At last, Alpha-N also added a set 19-inch OZ Racing Superturismo alloy wheels, which were shod with 235/35R19 and 255/30R19 tires.

So, if you are still wandering about a Christmas present, this performance pack seems absolutely appropriate.

Source: Alpha-N Performance

December 22, 2015

Vilner Creates the Most Eccentric MINI One Cabrio in the Universe

Vilner MINI One Cabrio Side View This is one of the craziest, most adorable and coolest interiors I have ever seen! And I have seen many. Under the exquisite work done here stands the name of Vilner, which has recently opened a studio in China. By the way, this is the first official project of the Beijing Studio they have decided to show to the general public.

As Vilner says, this is literally “the most eccentric MINI One Cabrio in the Universe”. The project was commissioned by the young actress Tyan Lynn, who wanted to express her sensuality and her motto in life: “Success can be limitless, just like the Universe”. As a result the interior is so colorful, that it barely needs any description… Nevertheless we should tell you the details, because this car is so inspiring that the word should be definitely spread.

As a matter of fact, the interior also received elements of pure gold, like the hand crafted icons on the buttons under the speedometer, some of the controls and the console in front of the gearshift lever. The latter has also received gold plating just like the roll-bars behind the heads of the rear occupants.

Basically the actress wanted the interior of her R57 in the colors of the Universe. This is a very tough task that shouldn’t be underestimated. That’s why Vilnerapplied 25 layers of paint and varnish that cover all plastic parts on the dashboard and steering wheel, including the bezels of the vents.

Vilner MINI One Cabrio Interior

For the upholstery the tuning studio has utilized pure leather and Alcantara in eccentric color which emphasizes the Universe. The purple is a representation of the “sweetness of life”, while blue stands for the vastness of the human soul. White has been used for the stitching and the seat belts.

On the outside the car has received minor changes: white alloys and asymmetrical coloring for the new wheel arches. The front ones come in blue paint, while those at the rear are in white. This is probably the most extrovert MINI ever made, isn’t it?

And don’t miss our Top 5 Star Wars Themed Cars!

Vilner MINI One Cabrio From Above

Source: Vilner

December 21, 2015

The Stronger the Better: Meet VAETH Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

VAETH Mrcedes-Benz C63 AMG This is VAETH Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. It has more power, better performance, enhanced looks. In other words it is absolutely adorable. With a stock horses up to 511 hp (376 kW), this car was lucky enough to get blessed by the V63S tuning kit that has it all. By all I mean the engine electronics, top speed unlocking and VAETH oil cooling installation.

After the V63S the four liters capacity of the powerful engine can boast up to 609 hp (448 kW) and 810 Nm (598 lb-ft) of torque. The Vmax has been too raised: from 300 to 320 kmph (from 186 to 199 mph). If this isn’t enough, VAETH can optimize your turbochargers and down pipe, releasing from 660 to 680 horsepower.

VAETH Mrcedes-Benz C63 AMG Rear View

That amount of additional power requires brake optimization via steel flex tubes, vehicle type approval and Castrol SRF racing brake fluid. There is a lowering performed with the help of lowering springs and coilovers that bring the car 15…40 mm closer to the ground.

To look even tougher onto the ground, the car has been equipped with 20-inch wheels in silver or black, which has been fitted with tires sized 255/30ZR20 at the front and 275/30ZR20 at the rear. Besides speedometer extension to 360 kmph, the car is also fitted with aluminum pedal set and black velour foot mats with silver VAETH logo.

Source: Miranda Media

December 21, 2015

2017 Acura NSX VIN 001 to be Auctioned at Barrett-Jackson in January

2017 Acura NSX was teased today with additional details. The strongly anticipated supercar, is coming to market next spring and the starting price has been announced at $156,000 USD. When equipped with additional options and available factory feature the car will top out at $205,700 USD. Acura will also auction the very first serial production NSX, VIN 001, at the Barrett-Jackson car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. This will happen at the last week of January 2016. The proceeds are going for charity: the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Camp Southern Ground.

In addition, customers will be able to design their NSX. They can design one of eight rich exterior colors and four interior schemes available. There are also available three different seating surface options, three wheel designs with painted or polished finish, carbon-ceramic brake options, a carbon fiber interior sport package, carbon fiber roof, etc.

2017 Acura NSX Front View

If you are keen on buying an Acura, then you should also know that first orders will be taken starting February 25^th. You can do this at the authorized NSX retailers or directly online with the help of the vehicle configurator on Acura’s official website. Once customers have created the NSX they wish, they can then schedule an appointment with an authorized NSX retailer to finalize the order.

And speaking of charity, this 2017 NSX will be the first all-new Acura vehicle to be auctioned for the benefit of charitable organizations. With VIN 001 this is the very first serial production NSX, which will be also strictly customized to owner’s wishes.

This makes the first NSX not only a special but also a historic vehicle. And the best part of it is that it can be yours if you submit the highest bid for VIN number 001. This will do a good deed to two incredible children’s charities, Camp Southern Ground and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation.

Source: Acura

December 21, 2015

You Can Now Order Ford Focus Red and Black Editions

Ford Focus Black Edition Side View Ford Focus Sport Red and Black Editions were introduced in the beginning of this month. Just in time for Christmas, Ford has announced that Ford Focus Red and Black Editions that slightly differ from the Focus Sport variant can be now ordered as well. Their pricing will vary depending on the market they are being sold.

In addition, it was also revealed that the cars will be available in a hatchback and a five-door wagon variant. Making a strong contrast to other cars on the road, the duo is popular with sports enhancements like the 18-inch alloys, the additional diffuser and optimized suspension as well as the new rear bumper.

What is more, stepping inside those cars will give you the opportunity of experiencing high-quality of sports seats contrasted by red stitching. The Force inside the car awakens when one sits behind the leather steering wheel and puts their feet on the pedal steel pads.

Ford Focus Red and Black Editions Interior

Ford Focus Red Edition and Focus Black Edition will be available in several engine versions. Here are included the 1.0 liter EcoBoost with 125 horsepower (92 kW), the 1.5 liter EcoBoost with 150 hp (110 kW) and the 182 hp (134 kW), the 1.5-liter TDCi with 120 hp (88 kW) and the two-liter TDCi with 150 horsepower (110 kW). Each engine will be offered as a standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Black Edition is distinguished by an exterior paint scheme in Panther Black, enhanced with Race Red accents on the roof, mirrors, and the grille. On the other hand the Red Edition has the opposite combination: a Race Red exterior paint finish with Panther Black accents.

Source: Ford

December 18, 2015

2016 BMW M2 and X4 M40i to Debut at NAIAS in January

BMW M2 Front View Two of the most awaited cars ever are going to make their world debut at the 2016 North American International Auto Show: the M2 and X4 M40i. NAIAS has a scheduled start on Monday, January 11, and to witness the birth of these future stars, you have to go to BMW’s Stand at 10:05 a.m. in Detroit’s COBO Center. There you will also see the X1, 7 Series, the plug-in hybrid 330e, the high-performance i8 and the all-electric i3.

2016 BMW M2

2016 BMW M2 is probably one of the most anticipated cars globally. And we all know why. It will feature the renowned BMW M Performance characteristics, which will be complimented by a sleek interior and exterior design.

The most exciting part is under the hood: the absolutely new M TwinPower Turbo technology 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine. It will be responsible for 365 hp (268 kW) and 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque, helping the M2 cover the 0-60 mph acceleration sprint in 4.2 seconds.

This car is inspired by its motorsport history and enhanced by BMW EfficientDynamics technology. It is actually expected that the BMW M2 will set standards its segment in terms of agility, driving feeling, directional stability, steering precision and controllability. When to expect the BMW M2 in US Showrooms? The answer is this spring. Pricing is to be announced shortly.

2016 BMW X4 M40i

2016 BMW X4 M40i Front and Side View

2016 BMW X4 M40i will also make a debut in Detrout alongside the M2. Fitted with cutting-edge drive technology, this SUV guarantees one-off driving experience and outstanding power delivery. The 355 hp (261 kW) and 465 Nm (343 lb-ft) of torque are produced by the M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology inline 6-cylinder engine. This unit will too make its world debut at NAIAS.

Well, the car reaches an electronically limited top speed of 150 mph, and also accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. The powerful yet efficient exterior chassis of the X4 M40i is tuned to M Performance specifications, BMW ConnectedDrive, intelligent xDrive and TwinScroll turbo technology. 2016 BMW X4 M40i will be offered in showrooms across United States in February with pricing to be announced closer to launch.

Source: BMW

December 18, 2015

Afzal Kahn Promises to Build the Ultimate Defender

Ultimate Defender Teaser This Friday we are excited to announce that the famous Afzal Kahn has made a promise to build the “Ultimate Defender”. Actually the popular designer has been commissioned to design a one-off and a bespoke version of the iconic Land Rover Defender. The car is going to be exhibited at the London Motor Show, which will take place on 5th – 8th May, next year.

We all know that this car is probably A.Kahn’s favorite to work with. In fact, we have seen most of tuner’s successful vehicle design. From what we know and see form the teaser image, the visual elements used in the Ultimate Defender capture subtle influences and recreate a resonant design with a contemporary feel.

The design of the vehicle will be also in harmony with the impeccable history of this British icon. And if you want to collaborate on the final design Afzal Kahn asks to have your say on what additional features would complement the unique car.

You can submit your entry on any social media using the hashtag #UltimateDefender. Those lucky of you will be invited to see the Ultimate Defender at the London Motor Show, which will feature their winning suggestions.

Afzal Kahn spoke with excitement about this project and told us that he has designed a vehicle that will celebrate the history and the unique personality of the Defender. He also said that he will pay a lot of attention to the details in this project.

He welcomes any feedback from Defender owners when they see the Ultimate Defender. We are impatiently looking forward until May!

Source: Kahn Design

December 18, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova

M177DE40AL

2016 BMW M2

2016 BMW X4 M40i