Author: Lidia Todorova

  • Toyota Details 2015 RAV4 Facelift

    2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Cruiser, GX and GXLToyota RAV4 has just been significantly updated and this comes to complete a remarkable 2015! So let’s see what has happened with the RAV4 and how the newest facelift complements vehicle’s superior qualities. In short, the SUV has sleeker and more dynamic exterior, refreshed interior, more efficient Euro 5 engines, trailer sway control and a lot of new standard and available features like the integrated active safety and driver assistance technologies. There is one substantial addition to the safety features, which uses a forward-facing camera and millimetre-wave radar to trigger vehicle systems. But let me take you to the details here.

    Exterior Changes

    Toyota RAV4 Facelift includes at its front a larger lower grille and slimline LED projector headlights, which give it more serious appearance.  By the way, the headlights incorporate high and low beams in a housing that also integrates LED daytime running lights. There are also LEDs at the back.

    SEE ALSO: Christmas Gifts for Toyota RAV4 are Already Planned!

    The front and rear bumpers have been both restyled. They add 35mm to the SUV’s overall length. In addition, the new wheel-arch moldings and rocker panels sharpen the sides and give the impression that the RAV4 has wider stance.

    2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift  Rear View

    For this notion also contribute the new wheel designs for mid-range GXL and high-grade Cruiser. Precisely, the GXL runs on 18-inch black alloy with bright machined spokes, while the Cruiser’s new 18-inch alloys have five pairs of spokes. The entry-level GX shows-off with 17-inch steel wheel with low rolling resistance tires.

    Three exterior colors have been added to the color palette of the range including Deep Red mica metallic that replaces the Wildfire, Hazel and Blue Gem.

    More Luxury Inside as well as… Silence

    2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift  Interior

    RAV4’s cabin is much quieter than before. This adds to the enhanced comfort for the occupants. Toyota introduces a brand new matte black trim with contrasting silver accents. Some changes include an entirely redesigned centre console, front cup holder, 12-volt accessory socket in the second row next to the two in the front as well as a new holder for sunglasses.

    The GXL and Cruiser models are also proud ‘owners’ of a two-dial instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-information display. GXL is now fitted with an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror. Other cool highlights in the Cruiser include leather-accented seats in black, tan or beige.

    Cutting-Edge Safety Technologies

    RAV4’s is fitted with wide range of cutting-edge safety technologies. Take for instance the Pre-Collision System with forward collision warning and automatic emergency brake, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

    In addition, optional features are the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and front parking sensors. Pre-Collision Safety System can warn the driver of a possible crash and automatically apply the brakes. Furthermore, the Active Cruise Control helps the driver keep a safe distance from the car in front.

    Cruiser gets as a standard an Automatic High Beam, which detects the headlights of oncoming vehicles and the taillights of preceding vehicles. Then it switches automatically between high and low beam to avoid dazzling other drivers. This model also gets the Lane Departure Alert as no-cost-option. It is designed to help avoid collisions by warning the driver if the vehicle starts to go out from its lane.

    Engines

    2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift Front View

    2015 Toyota RAV4 Facelift has three four-cylinder engines. The first one is the 146 hp (107 kW) 2.0-litre petrol for the two-wheel drive (2WD) variants. This unit is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox or Toyota’s Multidrive S automatic transmission.

    The all-wheel drive (AWD) models get a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine producing 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque, or a 2.5-litre petrol engine that develops 180 hp (132 kW). Petrol AWD variants are fitted with a six-speed multi-mode sequential-shift automatic transmission. On the other hand, the diesel AWD RAV4 offers a choice of the six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

    At last, new feature in the range is Toyota’s advanced all-wheel drive technology, called Dynamic Torque Control AWD. It utilizes information from speed, steering-angle and yaw-rate sensors to control torque transfer between the front and rear wheels.

    Source: Toyota

  • Here is Why Hyundai IONIQ Breaks the Hybrid Stereotype

    Hyundai IONIQ First TeaserHyundai IONIQ will make its world premiere in Korea in January and then it will be shown in March during the Geneva International Motor Show, followed by the New York Auto Show. But what is more important is that this car will make a revolution in the alternative fuel automotive industry. It will offer for the first time electric, plug-in gasoline/electric hybrid, or gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain in a single body type. This is how IONIQ will break the hybrid stereotype by delivering entertaining drive alongside great fuel economy and exclusive design!

    SEE ALSO: Hyundai Starts Selling 2016 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Across the United States 

    IONIQ is a response to the rapidly changing customer lifestyles and it does this via the choice of three low- or zero-emissions powertrain options. The car also embodies Hyundai’s vision to change the automotive paradigm and future mobility.

    Why IONIQ is the Best Name to Describe This Car?

    Hyundai IONIQ, the name, references elements of its creation. We can divide it in three parts to get the idea: ION, I and Q. If you are keen on physics and chemistry as I am, then you should know very well that an ion is an electrically-charged atom. This is a direct link to car’s clever combination of electrified powertrains.

    The second part of the name, I, shows how unique the car is to the Hyundai range, by showing brand’s environmental commitment and willingness to maximize choice for future buyers. At last, the Q represents car’s logo as a visual breakthrough.

    Some Details about IONIQ

    The car will be built on a new platform, which was specifically made for the multi-powertrain options. In addition, the chassis of the car was also optimized for better handling. In its fully-electric (EV) form, the car will be driven by a lithium ion battery. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will offer a combination of fuel-efficient energy with battery power. And finally, the hybrid (HEV) variant will use the petrol engine, which will charge the on-board battery that will be responsible for the enhanced efficiency.

    More teasers and information to come soon. Stay with us.

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Performmaster Redefines Pure “E-nergy” with Custom Mercedes E63 AMG

    Performmaster Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Side View Mercedes E63 AMG is definitely a car, which shows a lot of power, potential and performance capabilities, even without anyone working on it. However, it is also one of the most favorite cars of tuning companies. The newest example is Performmaster’s variant of E63 AMG, which has received a special treatment for its engine. As the tuning company says: it redefines pure “E-nergy”. And this perfectly describes the “E” letter of car’s name, because in physics it stands for energy (in case you wonder).

    SEE ALSO: Performmaster Mercedes-AMG C63 (S) Receives Significant Power Uprating 

    By the way, the latest Mercedes E63 AMG has certainly a lot to offer. It produces 557 hp (410 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) in both the Limo and the T-model. Even more, the factory S version pumps out 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft).

    The PEC Tuning-Module

    Performmaster Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Front View

    This is exactly where Performmaster stepped in with the purest intention of giving more to the already powerful output of the E-class. This wouldn’t have happened without the use of PEC Tuning-Module, which has upgraded the initial force of the E63 to 702 hp (516 kW) and 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft).

    The Comparison

    If we have to compare the new performance numbers with those of the production car, then I will make the math for you and immediately tell you that this is an increase of 145 hp (106 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft). But this is not all. The tuners decided to ‘add’ to the top speed too. The PEC Tuning-Module’s USP is the fully integrated V-max neutralization, thus raising the Vmax from 250 to 320 km/h.

    In other words, this car will take you where only super sports cars could go.

    Source: Performmaster

  • The Force Awakens: Dodge Joins the Dark Side [VIDEO]

    Dodge Joins the Dark Side If Darth Vader lived in today’s world and had to choose a vehicle, I bet he’d go for a Dodge Viper ACR. And since the premiere of the latest Start Wars Series, called “The Force Awakens” is intimidatingly near, December18th, then there is nothing better to talk about the strange combination of the ‘Dark Side’ and… Dodge cars. The company has just released a cool TV ad to promote the future blockbuster.

    Of course, you will hear the Imperial March, but what you will see is unexpectedly exciting. The video actually displays an army of muscle cars, compacts, crossovers and SUVs with massive doses of attitude!

    Each and every one of them is built for top performance, from power off the line to handling in the corners! Just like any Stormtrooper should be powerful, technologically advanced, capable and efficient, these Dodge vehicles, the Charger, Challenger, and Durango, express the same qualities!

    SEE ALSO: The Return of Dodge Viper ACR Supercar

    By the way, the ad is called “The Force Gathers” and the most exciting part of it is the ‘leading role’ of the black Dodge Viper ACR. The car was released this year and has shown some impressive details, about which you can read in the link above. But some fast facts, might remind you how cool this car is and why Darth Vader has chosen it.

    First, it is powerful beyond measure, because of its 8.4-liter V10 engine, which produces 645 horsepower (474 kW) and 813 Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. It transmits all this power onto the road via the Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission.

    The car also shows-off with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, 19-inch alloys and exclusive Kumho Ecsta V720 high-performance rubbers. We don’t doubt that Vader has chosen to add the Extreme Aero package to his Viper ACR, making sure that he will have the highest aerodynamic downforce of any production car! And just in case you ask about it, well the Extreme Aero package can offer up to three times the downforce of the Viper TA or Time Attack 2.0 package.

    Enjoy the video!

    httpv://youtu.be/7ESP8bPldl0

    Source: Dodge via YouTube 

  • Immerse Yourself in the 360 Experience of Honda Moto GP vs Type R vs Touring [VIDEO]

    Honda Civic Type R Racing These two videos are dedicated to all Honda fans around the world. It isn’t a secret that I am a crazy fan of Honda Type R, and when I saw (and “participated”) in this video I was so excited that wanted to immediately share it with you. If you have ever wanted to experience the feeling of riding alongside Honda World Touring Car stars Tiago Monteiro and Gabriele Tarquini, then I have good news: you can now do it.

    How is this possible? Via a breakthrough filming technique, which captures the action in 360 degrees. Therefore you can ride alongside Gabriele in his Civic Type R, and Tiago in his Castrol Honda Civic Touring Car, as they power around the Italy’s Circuito Tazio Nuvolari. The only disadvantage is that this happens only virtually.

    SEE ALSO: Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO] 

    In this ‘video’, Tarquini was accompanied by Gordon Shedden, Matt Neal, and Jack Clarke. They make a quartet of gleaming Type Rs attempt to hold off a rampaging Monteiro and 2015 LCR Honda MotoGP star Jack Miller on his Honda RC213V.

    Wonder who will claim bragging rights in this strange two- and four-wheel racing competition? You have to find out by watching the video below. I promise you that you will witness a hot-lap like no other, shot as part of an event that displayed the technical relationship between Honda and Castrol, as well as the race-bred Honda Civic Type R .

    Now, immerse yourself in the 360 experience and drag around your screen, or turn your phone to follow the racing action!

    httpv://youtu.be/PYM4qIneikQ

    To find out more, check out our event recap watch this video:

    httpv://youtu.be/FJSuaq4ioOQ

    Source: Honda Racing 2015

  • Buick Confirms North American Market Debut for Envision CUV

    2016 Buick Envision Exterior Buick has just confirmed that it is going to launch the Envision CUV in North America. The vehicle was launched in 2014 in China, representing company’s entrance into country’s SUV segment. The model for the Chinese market was offered in the following trim levels, which we also expect to see in North America: AWD Elite, AWD Luxury, AWD Versatile Flagship and AWD Versatile Sporty Flagship.

    Ever since the launch of the Envision, we are eagerly awaiting its debut in other countries. And the good news is that it will go on sale in 2016, playing an important part in Buick’s crossover lineup. It is targeting customers who like vehicles between Encore and Enclave. And by the way, the Chinese Envision has 127,085 sales so far this year.

    Some Facts about the North American Envision

    Dimensions of the model measure 4,667 mm in length, 1,839 mm in width and 1,696 mm in height. It rides on a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. These numbers only mean a roomy interior, which is also comfortable and safe.

    Buick Envision is powered by a strong 2.0L turbo engine, producing 252 horsepower (186 kW) engine with stop/start technology. The unit is also matched with HiPer Strut front suspension and an Active Twin Clutch all-wheel-drive system.

    SEE ALSO: Buick Launches 2015 Envision in China

    There are many efficiency-enhancing features included in the design of this CUV. Some of these include upper grille shutters that open and close to enhance aerodynamics on the highway and a body structure made of mass-reducing high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels. And have I mentioned the lightweight aluminum hood?

    2016 Buick Envision Interior

    The design accents, which are also functional, include LED daytime running lamps and rear LED accent lights, standard 19-inch alloy wheels, and optional panoramic moonroof. The interior benefits from some very cool features too, including standard eight-way power-adjustable front seats and four-way-adjustable lumbar.

    Here optional is the thigh support on some models that enhances comfort for taller passengers. The seats are also ‘heated’ as a standard, as is the steering wheel. For the hot summer days, Buick is offering a ‘cooling’ function for the front ones. Also standard inside are the tri-zone climate control with rear-seat controls and console-mounted rear vents, as well as the Bose premium sound system.

    Safety and technology equipment are also important part of any car. Buick knows that very well and therefore equips the Envision with standard Safety Alert Seat and Lane Keep Assist, optional Automatic Park Assist, and Surround Vision 360-degree camera system. Inside, hi-tech features include IntelliLink with 8-inch color touch screen, OnStar with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

    Who’s excited about the Envision coming in their town?

    Source: Buick 

  • Porsche Announces “Green Light” for the Electric Mission E

    Porsche Mission E at a Charging StationPorsche Mission E is a concept car not far away from its first production variant. The EV was unveiled in September and it amazed the general public with its 600 hp of total output, 500 km range on a single charge, and 15 minutes for an 80 percent charging of the battery. Nice, isn’t it?

    So, the question that was running in our minds is whether this is Tesla Model S biggest rival. Well, we have to wait a little bit and ironically we must admit that if this EV enters production and is offered at a pricing similar to this of Model S, then probably Tesla would lose most of its potential clients. However, Porsche would still have to build a huge network of charging stations in order to succeed in this endeavor.

    SEE ALSO: Is Porsche Mission E the Next Tesla Model S? [VIDEO]

    Dr. Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board, said that the vehicle is due to be launched at the end of the decade. And here are the details: Porsche is going to invest around a billion euros, thus continuing to back sustainable growth. Precisely, in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen more than 1,000 new jobs are going to be opened.

    Porsche Mission E Front View

    Around 700 million euros will be invested in the main site there, including an expansion of the factory for the production of electric motors. In addition, the existing body shop is being enlarged and a Weissach development centre is to be built.

    Porsche Mission E concept car debuted at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA). The four-door car with four individual seats can put onto the road over 600 hp (440 kW). And it can also do the following: it can achieve acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds and a range of more than 500 kilometres.

    The electric car is charged via an 800-volt charger unit, which has been specifically developed for it. It is so powerful that it achieves charging at 80 percent after just 15 minutes. What is more, the vehicle can optionally be ‘refueled’ wirelessly via a coil set into the garage floor.

    Porsche is definitely making a clear statement for the future (not only of the brand but of the automotive scenery in general) with the release of the Mission E. The world is greatly changing and therefore “smart” brands maintain to adjust with it. I don’t know about you but I’m definitely excited!

  • Kahn Range Rover Evoque RS Sport Comes in Ecstatic Fuji White

     Kahn Range Rover Evoque RS Sport Front ViewThe project by Kahn Design for this week is based on the beautiful Range Rover Evoque 2.0 TD4 SE Tech 5DR. It is equipped with tuning company’s RS Sport package, which conveys not only more elegance, but adds a sense of individuality to the style of the car.

    External Appeal

    First and foremost, the Evoque comes in Fuji White and ands on top of it the contrasting RS Sport package. It includes a brand new front bumper with integrated vents, which also feature 3-D mesh inserts. There was also front grille replacement performed, new headlights can be spotted on either side of the bumper. “KAHN” is positioned on the hood, stating proudly the work of the experts.

    SEE ALSO: Kahn Continues its Strong Relationship with Land Rover with the Introduction of Silver Defender Hard Top

    At the back, there is a new rear bumper added, which just like the front one includes integrated vents and an exhaust diffuser with two dual stainless steel cross-hair exhausts. The Evoque with the RS Pack also benefits from a set of 600-LE wheels with a slick Shadow Chrome finish that measure 22-inches and were fitted with 265/35/22 tyres on all four corners. The brake callipers can be painted in any color, but the pictured ones are in contrasting red.

     Kahn Range Rover Evoque RS Sport Rear View

    Interior Full of Details

    Very cool detailing is to be found inside, including the front and rear seats in Black Nappa Leather, Herringbone style, with Silver contrast stitching as well as a centre glove box. The stainless steel door entry sill plates complement perfectly the high-quality carpeted floor mats. A diamond gear selector, and machined and ventilated aluminium foot pedals also contribute for the luxurious environment.

    Would you drive an Evoque like that? I definitely would!

    Source: Kahn Design 

  • See and Hear the Exclusive McLaren 675LT Spider [VIDEO]

    McLaren 675LT Spider Side ViewSee the birth of the McLaren 675LT Spider – the first of its kind and the second wearing the 675LT badge. This car and its coupe sibling open a new chapter in the history of the iconic ‘Longtail’ name. The sad news is that it will be strictly limited to only 500 examples worldwide. Just like its coupe, the spider is too focused on reduced weight, better aerodynamics, increased power and track-focused dynamics.

    Typical for the 675LT family is that they are driven by the revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain. Therefore the power output and torque for the spider variant are the same, namely 675PS (496 kW) delivered at 7,100rpm and 700Nm (516lb-ft) available between 5,000-6,500rpm. Acceleration from 0 to100kmh (0-62mph) happens in only 2.9 seconds, and the sprint to 200kmh (124mph) is rated at 8.1 seconds. The top speed is 326km/h (203mph).

    SEE ALSO: It’s Official: McLaren 675LT Redefines Notions of Beauty and Power 

    If you wonder about how big the fuel consumption is, then I will have to disappoint you because this McLaren returns 24.2mpg on the EU combined cycle and emits only 275g/km of CO2.

    Exterior Full of Carbon

    McLaren 675LT Spider and Coupe

    At the core of the building of the 675LT Spider is the focus of on the lightweight technologies and materials as well as on the aerodynamic performance. This of course means nothing else but an extensive use of carbon fibre for the bodywork, including the front bumper with larger splitter and end plates, front under body, side skirts, side intakes, lower side intakes, rear bodyside lower, rear fenders, rear deck, rear bumper, diffuser and ‘Longtail’ Airbrake.

    As a result the dry weight of the car measures just 1,270kg, which is 100kg lighter than the 650S Spider. Another effect is the power-to-weight figure of 532PS per tonne.

    Unlike the coupe, the Spider sits on new lightweight springs and a wider track, which has been increased by 20mm. In addition, the supersports car runs on 10-spoke Ultra-Lightweight forged alloys that are sized 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. They have been fitted with P Zero™ Trofeo R tyres.

    Furthermore, the exterior paint palette includes Silica White, Delta Red, Napier Green and Chicane Grey paint finishes. There is a new deep golden color, called Solis, which is the bespoke color available exclusively for the open-top 675LT Spider.

    Interior Filled with Lightweight Components

    The cabin is adorned by Alcantara and bare carbon fibre. For instance, the lightweight material has been used for the racing seats, which offers the best lumbar support and visual charm. Unlike the coupe, there is an addition of exclusive Xenon Yellow contrast stitching.

    Club Sport Professional Pack

    McLaren 675LT Spider Rear View

    This package will give any customer the chance to enhance its McLaren 675LT Spider with more carbon and stealth detailing. It is offered in Titanium Silver, Storm Grey, Onyx Black and Chicane Grey, while the Ultra-Lightweight wheels are stealth finished. There is also a satin carbon fibre finish applied to the front wing end plates, lower side air intake and the centre of the rear bumper, along with the side intakes, wheel arches, wing mirrors and ‘Longtail’ Airbrake.

    Detailing of McLaren Orange has been added to the brake callipers, embossed leather and stitching. They come in the heritage color made famous by the Formula 1™ and Can-Am racers of Bruce McLaren.

    Following the example of the coupe, the production of the 675LT Spider will be strictly limited to only 500 units. The starting price begins at £285,450 with first deliveries next summer. Don’t forget to watch and hear the roar of this unique vehicle in the video below.

    httpv://youtu.be/IGGJrVY5rlc

    McLaren 675LT Spider Technical Details:

    PERFORMANCE
    • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)
    2.9 seconds
    • 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph)
    8.1 seconds
    • Top speed
    326 km/h (203 mph)
    • Power-to-weight
    532PS per tonne
    ENGINE & POWERTRAIN
    • Engine Configuration
    V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc
    • Power
    675PS (666 bhp) @ 7,100 rpm
    • Torque
    700Nm (516 lb ft) @ 5,000-6,500 rpm
    • Transmission
    7 Speed SSG
    • CO2
    275g/km
    DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
    • Dry weight
    1,270kg
    • Weight distribution
    42 / 58
    • Length
    4,546 mm
    • Width
    2,095 mm
    • Height
    1,192 mm

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: McLaren 

  • Overfinch Marks Defender’s 40th Anniversary with a Special Edition

    Overfinch Land Rover Defender Anniversary Edition Front ViewOverfinch is a tuning company famous for its projects on various Land Rover models. And to mark the iconic Land Rover Defender 40th Anniversary, the tuning company has decided to craft five exclusive Defenders. Each vehicle will have an individually numbered plaque and in addition it will also include modern features.

    Exterior Design

    We can surely tell that this is an Overfinch, because of vehicle’s bonnet and front grille. They however contrast the rest of the bodywork. The front bumper for instance features integrated LED daytime running lights and spot lamps. The side sills feature chequered plating, while the rear quarter panels are finished in black satin.

    SEE ALSO: Overfinch Shows What Perfection Is [VIDEO]

    Overfinch Land Rover Defender Anniversary Edition Side View

    Take a look at the fuel cap, which has been machined in aluminium with discreet Overfinch branding, or at the exterior door handles, which lend the Land Rover one-off identity. Swing away rear arm, a rear step with an electric tow bar, upgraded rear LED lighting and painted mirror backs are also featured in the exterior pack.

    These Defenders will run on 18-inch Apollo alloy wheels in a gloss black finish with a diamond turned face. They are the last details of the exterior appearance of the famous car.

    Exclusive Interior

    Overfinch Land Rover Defender Anniversary Edition Interior

    The interior also features exclusive details. The cabin is wrapped in leather, including the Recaro front seats. By the way, they have a 40th crest stitched into the headrest to mark the special anniversary. At the rear there are folding seats, cubby box lid, passenger grab handle, headliner and the dashboard top. They are covered in Bridge of Weir ebony leather with Cirrus leather inserts.

    Overfinch also offers a Control Pack with one of the best leathers for the gearshift, range selector, handbrake and steering wheel. The pedals are machined out of aluminium. Stylish details include the modern instrument dials, a Bluetooth connected Alpine Double Din satellite navigation, DAB radio and a reversing camera.

    This vehicle is definitely for those who want to make it as a part in Defender’s history. If you are one of them, then you should make sure to prepare at least £70,000.

    Source: Overfinch 

  • MINI Releases 250 Units of the Countryman Special Edition

    MINI Countryman Special Edition  Front ViewMINI has launched a limited edition of the Countryman, specifically dedicated to the customers in the UK. The Special Edition has been developed in order to give people the chance for more exclusivity in this bigger type of MINI model. It is of course instantly recognizable via its unique styling features. Follow me to know more about it.

    The first thing that grabs the attention is the exclusive Space Grey Metallic roof and mirror caps. They are complemented by 18-inch 5-Star Double Spoke alloy wheels that come in black and perfectly harmonize with the Absolute Black Metallic body paint finish.

    SEE ALSO: Maxi-Tuner Offers Special Upgrade for 2016 Clubman S 

    Furthermore, the car also gets all benefits of the updated Countryman. This means that it receives abundant styling equipment including MINI Navigation System, Voice Control, MINI Connected, and enhanced Bluetooth with USB audio and multi-function steering wheel. But there is more to that: Front Seat Heating, Automatic Air Conditioning and Xenon Headlights are also standard.

    The interior of the MINI Countryman Special Edition is also eye-catching. It is governed by interior surfaces in Piano Black and leather upholstery in Gravity-Carbon Black.

    There are actually two model variants, between which customers can choose: MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman or MINI Cooper SD ALL4 Countryman. Either can be specified with manual or automatic transmission, but regardless of that each receives the ALL4 all-wheel drive system. MINI Countryman Special Edition can be ordered via UK dealerships now. And remember: there will be only 250 units made, so hurry up and get yours.

    Source: MINI 

  • ABT Sportsline and the 410HP Strong Audi RS Q3

    ABT Sportsline Audi RS Q3 Side ViewThis is probably if not the latest project the one before that from ABT Sportsline for this year… and we love it. It is based on a car with an engine which has been announced as “International Engine of the Year” and therefore it sets very high expectations. The stock output of this unit is rated at 340 hp (250 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.  And it is very intriguing to see what the ABT experts have done over this good basis.

    The awarded engine, the 2.5 TFSI, got ABT Power “New Generation“, which is tuning company’s high-end performance upgrade with its own separate control unit and software. In this way, the RS Q3 received significantly more power, 410 hp (301 kW) and a torque 530 Nm (390 lb-ft).

    SEE ALSO: ABT Individual Tunes Audi RS3 to 450HP for Essen Motor Show

    Other additional goodies here include height adjustable suspension kit with a flexibly lowered suspension. It brings the Audi closer to the ground by 15 to 45mm. But the beautiful white car is not only lowered, but it is also widened with the help of in-house made ABT wheel spacers of size of 4×15 or 4x25mm.

    ABT Sportsline Audi RS Q3 Engine

    The width is emphasized via huge 21-inch wheels, which come in contrasting mystic black finish. ABT Sportsline also offers additional styling enhancements like the mirror caps and various deco films and red-and-black stripes for the “hips”.

    The true emphasis here is the rear skirt, which is made of high-quality PU-RIM. It also features serpentine ornamental grid. The styling set also comprises of stainless-steel muffler system with four 89mm black tail pipes. They are impressive not only because of their looks, but because of their sound, too.

    Source: ABT Sportsline