Lidia Todorova – Page 4 – Automobiles Review

G-POWER surprises with stunning Mercedes-AMG G63 conversion

G-POWER Mercedes-AMG G63 front view

The iconic off-roader’s V8 now receives an addition of 74 hp and 140 Nm of torque

G-POWER has been mainly associated with BMW conversions. However, the tuning studio is also keen on optimizing another German automaker’s models: the Mercedes-Benz cars. The conversion here includes the iconic off-roader G63 AMG, which has received a significant power boost and a brand new shoes to run on.

The latest variant of the Mercedes-AMG G63 is driven by the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which produces the impressive 571 hp (420 kW) with 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) of torque. So, it is a great basis to work on, and the G-POWER engineers have taken advantage of this fact.

The first thing they did is to develop a Bi-Tronik 5 V1 power module, which helps the V8 release additionally 74 hp and 140 Nm of torque. To make the math for you, this makes a total of 645 hp (474 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft).

G-POWER Mercedes-AMG G63 engine

Here are some details about this power module: it is connected upstream of the engine control unit, thus modifying the data from the vehicle’s sensors and transmitting it to the stock ECU. The latter has an output control parameters, which are based on this incoming data.

If we have more power, we should also have better performance, right? The stopwatch says it better: due to the extra power and torque, this G63 AMG is now capable to run from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. After the removal of the top speed limiter, the off-roader can now produce more than 250 km/h!

More power sometimes requires new on-road attitude, and the simplest way to achieve this is to add new wheels. So the specialists at G-POWER didn’t hesitate to equip the Mercedes with their ultra-light 23-inch HURRICANE RR forged alloys, fitting it additionally with 305/35ZR23 tyres. They have black finish and five double-spoke wheel design, which perfectly highlights the sports character of the G63 AMG and contrasts its exterior paint scheme.

Show some love for this project!

Source: G-POWER

August 12, 2016

LARTE Design offers new tuning pack for the popular Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal project

The extras included make the V-class Black Crystal the perfect luxury family car for business people

This week has started with the announcement of LARTE Design’s Mercedes GLS Black Crystal, which will be revealed at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) on August 24th. But besides this exclusive project, the Russian tuner is about to show there all emblematic vehicles in its portfolio, including the Tesla Model S Elizabeta and the V-class Black Crystal. By the way, the latter has received some additional updates, and now LARTE is introducing them ahead of the show at the end of the month.

On the pictures in the galley you will see a white variant of the LARTE Design’s Mercedes-Benz V-class Black Crystal. The pictures have been taken in a lovely place in front of an American styled house, depicting the perfect and harmonious atmosphere.

As you know, if you have followed the projects of the tuners, the bespoke van is the perfect companion for long-distance business trips, VIP-shuttling and management level meetings. But it is also great for family trips with kids; and this is entirely due to the space and comfortability it offers.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class Black Crystal by Larte Design front view

The appearance of this V-Class Black Crystal is also something to ponder on. It is striking: looking like a precious diamond and attracting the glances of everyone. But it couldn’t be otherwise. Just look at its expressive body design and forms, offering refined and stylish performance.

This of course is due to some extra add-ons, including the in-house made brand-new front and rear bumpers, new radiator grill with LARTE horseshoe logo on it. The tuning pack also includes side sills and stainless steel tail-pipes. And if you wonder why this project is named Black Crystal, it is because of the two black Swarovski crystals embedded in the front bumper. The iconic for the tuning company look is rounded out by the stunning LED daytime running lights. All parts are made of composite materials, while just some elements are covered with carbon fiber. This white version of the V-class Black Crystal by LARTE Design is the perfect vehicle for those wanting to express their high status and at the same time bring the home on the road.

Source: LARTE Design

August 12, 2016

Hyundai shares first insights on the new generation i30 [w/video]

Hyundai i30 is entirely designed and developed in Europe

The new generation Hyundai i30 is here…Well, almost. It will be revealed online on September 7^th, meaning that there is nothing else for the brand to do other than to tease the new car with first official images. There are three of them and even better – there is a video showing more of the upcoming model. The facts and information given are scarce, but we are excited to understand that the i30 has been entirely designed and developed as well as tested in Europe.

In other words, Hyundai has been very clever as it is expansion is growing strongly throughout the Old Continet. Well, what people like there is definitely the classic German design. We are far from the thought that the new Hyundai model will look like a BMW or a Mercedes, but the fact that the Asian company has made efforts to impress the conservative European public brings joy to our hearts. Here are the details.

The President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, Peter Schreyer, said that the New Generation i30 is a “car for everybody”. He continued that in the design pursue, the team focused not only on one customer, but on a wide range of different people. As he describes it, it is an “evolution of Hyundai Motor’s design language”.

Hyindai i30 headlights - teaser

The car is about to appear with natural flowing lines, more refined surfaces and a sculpted body. And all of this is linking to a timeless appearance. The most impressive detail revealed so far is the further developed grille, called “the Cascading grille.” Additional details disclosed include the efficient and dynamic powertrain line-up, innovative safety and connectivity features as well as excellent market value.

After the official online debut of the New Generation Hyundai i30, it will receive a stage premiere at the Paris Motor Show next month.

httpv://youtu.be/WLHhrigZyxA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hyundai

August 11, 2016

What to expect from ŠKODA KODIAQ as brand reveals first images [w/video]

ŠKODA KODIAQ carries company’s new design language into the SUV segment

The debut of ŠKODA KODIAQ will happen in a month on September 1st in Berlin. Since there isn’t much time left and the interest must be raised, ŠKODA has just released four images and a teaser video of the upcoming SUV, which is destined to transfer the brand’s new design language into the crossover segment.

Since we have a number of photos, let’s comment on what we are about to expect from the new model. The aim of ŠKODA’s designers is obviously to impress the public in Berlin. The radiator grille appears to be wider than expected, with three dimensional design, and coming in combination with narrow and rake-like headlights. The appropriate question here is whether the full-LED technology featured will be standard on the KODIAQ or not? Well, unfortunately it will come as an option for those keen on goodies like the LEDs.

Next, at the sides we see the athletic shapes of the doors, while the rear’s tailgate shows an expressively design forms. The good news here is that the rear lights will be fitted with LED technology as standard, shining in the typical ŠKODA C-shape.

Skoda Kodiaq rear view - tail lights

But there are also details we can’t see on the teasers in the gallery, which ŠKODA has politely disclosed. First, the KODIAQ is going to offer a large amount of space. Precisely: a capacity of 720 to 2,065 litres, when the rear seats are folded down. If you haven’t heard, the SUV will have the convenience of a seven seat option.

In terms of driver assistance systems, ŠKODA has equipped the KODIAQ with Area View, which uses surround-view cameras at the front, rear and in the wing mirrors; Tow Assist and Manoeuvre Assist. The connectivity won’t be left inappropriate, because the company has ensured that the innovative ŠKODA Connect mobile online services are featured. By the way, what we know so far is that they will be divided into two categories: the Infotainment Online services and Care Connect services. The centrepiece of the latter is the emergency call following an accident (it automatically calls emergency if an airbag is activated).

So are you excited for the word premiere?

httpv://youtu.be/Mn4IrB2Igyw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Skoda

August 11, 2016

What’s new for the refreshed 2017 Audi A3 Lineup?

Audi of America reveals technology abundant updated Audi A3 Family

2017 Audi A3 Family has been refreshed for the new model year and those who will benefit from the advantages it offers are the American customers. The prices are starting as low as $34,200 USD. The lineup, which is debuting in the United States, includes the A3 Sedan and Cabriolet, A3 Sportback e-tron and the high-performance S3 Sedan models.

Basically, the new lineup’s exterior has been refreshed, and Audi has also expanded the suite of driver assistance systems and technology offerings. One of the added standard features for instance includes the Audi pre sense front, while available are the rear cross traffic assist, Audi virtual cockpit, MMI touch and smartphone integration.

What’s new for 2017?

As mentioned, the exterior design of the A3 model line has been refreshed. It now looks sportier due to its new lighting design. The interior also features some minor design refinements, while greater attention to detail has been paid to the driver-focused technologies. Some of the new highlights on the outside include new front fascia with high-gloss Singleframe grille, undercut headlight design and light signatures, lower front and rear bumper styling as well as new wheel designs. On the inside, a major change is the new six-way power adjustable front seats that go for the Cabrios only.

The new technology features for the 2017 model year are abundant and include the Audi virtual cockpit, smartphone integration and the retractable MMI screen. In addition, the The A3 model line now incorporates many new driver assistance features like the standard rear view camera and Audi pre sense front, Parking system plus (standard on Premium Plus and Prestige models), High beam assistant and Audi active lane assist (standard on Prestige) and more.

2017 Audi S3 Interior

Although we wished for changes under the hood, Audi A3 Sedan and Cabriolet continue to come equipped with a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The unit is linked to a six-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive and generates 220 hp (162 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.

The same counts for the S3 sedan, which continues to be driven by the 2.0 TFSI engine with quattro all-wheel drive. It generates 292 hp (215 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque, which is enough to achieve a speed of 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

Audi announced that it will continue making product changes and updates, which will be announced at a later date.

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Specifications:

MODEL	ENGINE	TRANSMISSION	HORSEPOWER	TORQUE
A3 Sedan / Cabriolet	2.0 TFSI quattro AWD	Six-speed S tronic	220 hp @ 4,500-6,200 rpm	258 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,400 rpm
S3 Sedan	2.0 TFSI quattro AWD	Six-speed S tronic	292 hp @ 5,400-6,200 rpm	280 lb-ft @ 1,900-5,300 rpm

2017 Audi A3 Model Lineup Pricing:

MODEL	PREMIUM	PREMIUM PLUS	PRESTIGE
A3 Sedan quattro	$34,200	$37,450	$43,150
A3 Cabriolet	$40,300	$43,550	$49,250
S3 Sedan		$42,900	$48,400

Source: Audi

August 11, 2016

Mercedes A-Class: the controversial car is now in its best form after PIECHA’s conversion

PIECHA Design offers new styling kits for the W176

Who said that the controversial Mercedes A-Class can not look sporty? Well, of course after the general transformation it received in 2012, the car looks unrecognizable from its original form. Because of the negative customer reaction of the “minivan”-like A-class, the new variants look mostly as a small version of the C-class. Still, the transformed automobile debuted four years ago, and if you are among those owning one, but are satisfied with its performance and capabilities, then you will most certainly like this article.

The tuning experts at PIECHA Design have just released very stylish and sporty variant of the A-Class. The cosmetic changes are due to the addition of company’s GT and GT-R styling kits, but they not only contribute for the good looks, but also make the car faster and more agile.

Here are the details: the front of the A250 is adorned with a pair of new GT-R front cup wings. They have been placed in the original AMG bumper, thus helping the car look wider. For added assertiveness takes care the GT-R front splitter as it divides the big external front apron grid.

At the back of the automobile we see something very pleasing: the GT-R roof edge spoiler, which highlights the striking new body shapes of the A-Class. The final touch at the rear is given by the GT-R rear diffusor insert that sports the original AMG twin tailpipe trims of the SL63 AMG (or C63 AMG, depending on customer’s choice).

PIECHA Design Mercedes-Benz A-Class front view

By the way, if your A-Class isn’t an AMG, then you will need PIECHA’s GT air dam lip URBAN that is stuck upon the production bumper. To it should be also added the GT sill flaps URBAN, so that you can get the sporty AMG appearance. Not forgetting to add better alloys: the tuning studio is actually offering 19-inch high-tech MP1-Monoblocks in titanium or black, or 20-inch MP5-LXMs in silver or black.

Now that’s an A-Class to praise, isn’t it?

Source: PIECHA Design

August 10, 2016

Suzuki to debut the latest Ignis and SX4 S-Cross in Paris

Facelift variants of the due to challenge design perceptions

2016 Paris Mondial de l’Automobile or Paris Motor Show will be happening next month. Since automakers’ ad campaigns are just starting, we have only scarce information about the vehicles debuting there. Among the first to tease premieres in Paris is Suzuki. Well, it is rather a facelift variant of a good old fellow than a debut, but still some might mind it exciting.

Suzuki is about to preview the new version of the Ignis. This is the compact crossover, which during the years has offered stylish appearance and perfect utility. Besides the disputable new appearance of the model, Suzuki actually said that it is bringing some attributes back to life with this facelift.

What the company is naming “minimal exterior design” might not appeal to everyone (me including), but it surely gives a fresh take on the iconic design. Other details released so far say that the new Ignis will sport the latest environmental technology from Suzuki. The latter will feature a rigid and lightweight platform, and the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) allowing extra assistance through the electric motor and providing efficient battery recharge. The goal is obvious: to reach great fuel efficiency without sacrificing exceptional performance.

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross front view

The visitors of the Paris Motor Show will also see the SX4 S-Cross facelift, which will appear with a revamped front exterior design and further refined interior. New here are the 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet direct-injection turbo engines, which that replace the existing 1.6 petrol unit. The 1.6 DDiS will be still available.

The new Suzuki Ignis is destined to cross the European roads and it will be available on the market, starting January 2017. The auto event in Paris begins on 29th September.

Source: Suzuki

August 10, 2016

The most powerful Range Rover is here. Meet the 550HP potent SVAutobiography Dynamic [w/video]

Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic is the latest addition to the 2017 Model Year lineup

This is the most powerful Range Rover up to date, which has just joined the 2017 lineup. For those impatient and interested to see and drive the model, the sales will start during the last quarter of this year. But before you head for the stores, there are some important details that will fire-up your excitement even more.

The first thing we have to mention is the additional engine, which the model gets. Besides the standard 550HP V8 supercharged unit, the SVAutobiography Dynamic is now optional with Jaguar Land Rover’s 3.0 litre V6 supercharged petrol engine.

If you go for the first one, then your SVAutobiography Dynamic will be the most powerful Range Rover on the road. The V8 not only produces 550HP, but is also capable of 680 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a ZF’s eight-speed automatic transmission, thus ensuring it is possible for the SUV to make it from 0 to 60mph in just 5.1 seconds. The top speed is 140mph. The additional engine, the V6, pumps out 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque, helping the vehicle produce a 0-60 time of 7.1s.

Many new technologies aid the performance of this Range Rover, too. To name a few, some of the standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) include the Rear Park Distance Control, Cruise Control and Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

2017 Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic side view

A cool option however, is the ‘Drive Pack’. Besides the existing features like the Blind Spot Monitor, it also adds technology such as the Intelligent Speed Limiter. The latter utilizes Traffic Sign Recognition hardware, which automatically adjusts the vehicle speed. Another option is the ‘Drive Pro Pack’, which adds Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist and Intelligent Emergency Braking.

Advanced Tow Assist and Low Traction Launch are also new features which will take any anxiety out of the difficult task when towing a trailer. More importantly, Jaguar Land Rover is now introducing for its 2017 lineup the ‘InControl Touch Pro’ infotainment system with improved satellite navigation and larger 10-inch dual-view touchscreen display.

New exterior colors will freshen up the 2017 Model Year Range Rover. With the help of Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations division, the most popular SUV is now getting an addition of 19 new metallic and pearlescent shades, which are also available in gloss or satin matte finishes.

Well, besides what’s new the SVAutobiography Dynamic, will make you stand out on the road. It shows-off with these unique exterior features: side vents, bonnet finisher, grille, front bumper accents, ‘Range Rover’ script and tailgate finisher. Not forgetting to mention that the SUV is running on a 21 or 22-inch alloys, which can be chosen in one of three finishes. Behind them sit the eye-catching red brake calipers and Brembo brakes.

2017 Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic interior

The luxurious interior, which the future owner will enjoy, includes diamond quilted leather seats with contrast stitching, offset by Grand Black veneer front fascia and door casings, rotary shift controller, start stop button and pedals with knurled finish.

So, to sum up, 2017 Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic has received a range of advanced semi-autonomous driving technologies, luxurious materials inside and out, and being powered by a potent V8 engine makes it the most powerful and dynamic production Range Rover to date. At last, by the end of this year, those of you living in the UK will have the opportunity of buying the SUV with prices starting from £76,350 for the TDV6 Vogue, while the SVAutobiography Dynamic will be priced at £132,800.

httpv://youtu.be/tVF9OsVaCjo

Source: Land Rover

August 10, 2016

This Huracan Final Edition sets new standards among bespoke rivals

VOS Performance offers high-end tuning for the iconic Lamborghini Huracan

In 2015 we witnessed the birth of VOS Performance’s bespoke conversion for the Lamborghini Huracán, which captured our hearts entirely. What made this tuning so special is that the creators have based their ideas on the motto “Think outside the box”. As a result, the experts at VOS considered a rather “holistic approach” to the customization, thus offering for the Huracán an extravagant individuality combined with exclusive craftsmanship.

Now, the creative minds at VOS Performance have put out a brand new version of the standard Lamborghini Huracán called “Final Edition”. Here, the approach they took in the transformation is to blend aesthetics and engineering.

At the front, the new carbon-fiber spoiler lip has been subtly changed but still it is a totally functional component that blends in with the lines of the car. In contrast, the large carbon-fiber rear lower diffuser and the two different designs for the carbon-fiber rear wing offer a sporty and aggressive take on the standard back end.

VOS Performance Lamborghini Huracan Final Edition rear view

By the way, the factory rear spoiler has been locked down, thus superseding its function providing positive downforce required for unerring high-speed stability in a straight line and in fast sweepers. Next to the aerodynamic optimization VOS Performance has prepared for the Lambo a high-performance sports spring set, which lowers its ride height by 35mm.

Leaving the exterior aside, Huracan’s interior is stylishly adorned with carbon fiber elements on the door panels, centre console, air vents and paddle shifters. In other words, VOS Performance Lamborghini Huracán Final Edition is a project finished in its totality. Tuners did not make any sacrifices on the interior, and this is why we dig this project very much.

Source: VOS Performance

August 9, 2016

LARTE Design reveals more details about the new mystical Black Crystal project

LARTE Design Mercedes-Benz GLS Black Crystal rear view second teaser

This image shows the blackout variant of what we have previewed as the latest Black Crystal in LARTE Design’s family. Although we have been left with the impression that the new vehicle will be white, it seems that there is a variant in the opposite color. Whether LARTE will keep both color versions stay unclear.

What we know so far is that the project, which will be exhibited at the MIAS event in Moscow, is based on the new Mercedes GLS. The Russian studio says that its new project is a marvelous new tuning car, which features a brand new tuning kit.

Precisely, the latter comprises of a front and rear bumpers with carbon fibre inserts. Since we have only received the image of the rear, what we can spot is that it looks very massive, sporty and aggressive due to the addition of the huge air diffuser, four extraordinary exhaust pipes and a lot of carbon fiber elements.

Keeping it a secret, the front is said to have a brand new bumper with masculine lines and a new radiator grill sporting the LARTE horseshow logo. At the sides, there will be new side pads which are reminiscent of tuner’s variant of the amazing Mercedes GL Black Crystal. Carbon shielded air intakes will adorn the fenders.

Besides the GLS Crystal, LARTE Design will basically exhibit its entire portfolio, including the business road-jet Mercedes V-Class Black Crystal and the “electrifying” Tesla Model S Elizabeta. There are rumors that the V-Class will appear with a brand-new front and rear bumpers made of composite materials and decorated with carbon fiber elements, so we are excited to see the change, too.

Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS) opens gates on 24th of August and closes on 4th of September. LARTE Design’s booth is located in hall 3 (pav.13, booth B106).

Source: LARTE Design

August 9, 2016

dÄHLer is taking the BMW X4 M40i to unknown levels of performance and aerodynamics

dÄHLer BMW X4 M40i equipped with tuner’s “competition line” offers unmatched horsepower

The tuning company dÄHLer strikes again with an exclusive project, which this time is based on the X4 M40i powered by the N55-engine. The significant customization pushes further the innate capabilities of the SUV. Equipped with what the tuner is calling “dÄHLer competition line”, this X4 M40i is more powerful and dynamic as it has ever been.

In short, the modifications included here feature performance increase to 424 HP, new coil-over suspension system and performance braking unit, stainless steel exhaust system as well as new wheels and tires combination. The experts also worked on optimizing the aerodynamics and the appearance of the X4.

Starting with the main feature here, the performance step-up, it is available in three different levels. The first one fires up the in-line six-cylinder M TwinPowerTurbo with 2.979 cubic capacity to 395 HP (294 kW) and 772 Nm (570 ft-lb) of torque. The next level brings everything to 414 HP (309 kW) and 786 Nm (580 ft-lb) of maximum torque. At its best, the optimization (Level 3) brings the horses up to 424 HP (316 kW) and the impressive 800 Nm (590 ft-lb).

To be even more specific, the last numbers are more than enough to push the BMW X4 M40i from 0 to 100 in only 4.5 seconds. The top speed has been set to 270 km/h. The best part: the emissions remain unchanged from the original series.

dÄHLer BMW X4 M40i rear view

The added performance means that there is a great need for better handling. So, the tuner added new coil-over suspension system, which increases the agility of the X4. In addition, the sporty-tight suspension system lowers the X4 enough to make it look more aggressive. dÄHLer has also given this BMW 8-piston high performance braking system with brake discs sized 400 millimeter.

In terms of visuals, the appearance of the X4 M40i is updated with better aerodynamics due to the addition of new and more efficient front spoiler lip. The rear is enhanced with a new rear wing (optional) as well as stainless steel exhaust system.

At last but not least of importance is tuner’s variant of wheel and tire combination. In other words this BMW X4 M40i runs on 20- or 21-inch (depending on the choice of the customer) dÄHLer CDC1 wheels fitted with respectfully big tires.

Diligence and expertise is all you need to make your car truly stand out.

Source: Dähler via Miranda Media

August 9, 2016

Carbon Motors magically transforms the interior of the iconic Range Rover

Carbon Motors Range Rover Onyx Concept has the most exquisite interior so far

Carbon Motors are one of our favorite tuners to write about. Not only because they create exclusive one-off projects, but also because they are so diligent in their work, that we can not but only support them with all means. Their latest project involves a Range Rover, which has been already updated on the outside with a unique body kit, delivered by the UK specialists at ONYX.

By the way, the Range Rover, introduced in the 1970s, was named at the Musée du Louvre in Paris “an exemplary work of industrial design” and we can not argue with that. The vehicle has proven quickly that it is literally the ultimate machine for on-road aristocracy.

Returning to the current topic, the here presented project is actually a masterful work of art when it comes to its interior. The designers and tuners at Carbon Motors made the cabin look contemporary, but still manage to keep the classiness of its shapes and forms.

Carbon Motors Range Rover Onyx Concept interior

Initially, they have made a custom design sketch (the last picture in the gallery), showing an entirely transformed look of the cabin. As a result, the interior is now a combination of special and expensive materials applied with a lot of craftsmanship.

To get into details, the seats are covered with bi-color leather in teak brown and black, contrasted by decorative brown stitching. In addition, the headliner and pillars come in black Alcantara and feature the same decorative stitching. To underlining the strong character of the Range Rover, Carbon Motors decided to coat all trim elements inside with carbon fiber and varnish with scratch resistant cover. Note that even the cup holder has been carbon-fiber coated.