Lidia Todorova – Page 43 – Automobiles Review

The Force Awakens with First Ever Fiat 500e Stormtrooper

We are impatiently waiting for the premiere of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” on 18^th of December. And since there are a lot of fans among us, we decided to show you a very special Fiat 500e, which has taken the form of a stormtrooper. Unlike Vilner’s tuning (see in the link below) of the BMW M6, this one actually mimics the mask of the famous character.

Fiat 500e stormtrooper along with the DVF Fiat 500X debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show and cause great furor. Call it a perfect timing, but this car actually comes ahead of the premiere of the iconic series. So, let’s check it out in details.

Fiat 500e stormtrooper

Inspired by the First Order Legion, the exterior livery of the Fiat 500e stormtrooper features two-tone black and white custom painting. To make it look like a helmet, the windshield and the side windows were specifically wrapped. Inside, everything is decorated in black and white, too.

The seats got Alcantara treatment, while the dash was painted in white and enriched by the “Star Wars” logo. The detailing has been always important for Fiat, hence this one received white/black lacquer treatment for the tiny styling components. And have you spotted the First Order insignia on the two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheel? The last thing you should know about this impressive mini is that it was created by the specialists at Garage Italia Customs.

DVF Fiat 500X

At the show, the company also displayed a custom-wrapped DVF Fiat 500X. DVF are initials who stand for the name of Diane von Furstenberg. As an inimitable, self-made fashion icon, business woman and mentor, she called upon viewers of E!’s “House of DVF” to share their stories of “How I Became the Woman I Wanted to Be.” One winner drove away with a custom Fiat 500X wrapped in a DVF Heritage print.

Source: FIAT

November 20, 2015

Toyota Sets the Blackline with a Special 86 Edition

Toyota 86 Blackline Edition Front View Toyota 86 Blackline Edition is a very special car, that most of us will never see. The reason for this is that it will be produced in just 450 examples, but more importantly it will be dedicated to those fans living in Australia. The Blackline features very cool styling and it is definitely a sportscar that deserves well paid attention.

Exterior

First we should mention that this particular edition is based on the Toyota 86 GTS. However, it features more over it including body kit, gloss-black 17-inch alloy wheels and distinctive red highlights in the sporty black interior.

The name of this rather white car comes from the twin black stripes on the roof and bonnet. They also come to show the racing capabilities of the car. By the way TRD was also involved in the making. Thanks to it, the car received front spoiler, side skirts, three-piece rear spoiler, rear lower bumper and fender garnishes.

At last, special exterior fittings include auto-levelling HID headlamps, front foglamps and LED daytime running lamps.

Interior

Toyota 86 Blackline Edition Interior

The cabin features dramatic splashes of red on the seats, steering wheel, gearshift knob, handbrake lever and door grips. Stepping inside over the scuff plates with stainless-steel inserts, owners enjoy a dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, keyless smart start, leather-accented front seats with Alcantara inserts and aluminium pedals.

Other standard features include a 6.1-inch touch screen with satellite navigation and live traffic updates, reversing camera and audio interface.

Power & Safety

The motorsport capabilities are supported by the 2.0-litre direct-injection four-cylinder engine. It is mated to either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission and produces 200 hp (147kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.

For the safety of the occupants of the Blackline Edition take care seven airbags, reversing camera, cruise control, stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes and a multi-information display.

Toyota 86 Blackline Edition with manual transmission has a starting price of $37,990 AUD, and will be produced in 250 examples. The Other 200 will be fitted with automatic one and will be priced from $40,490 AUD.

Source: Toyota

November 20, 2015

Kahn Design and the Volcanic Jeep Wrangler Sahara CTC

Kahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara CTC Side View It is Friday and we are absolutely ready to let you know of this week’s project of the tuners at Kahn Design. Under their expertise is the Jeep Wrangler. Involved in the making of this customization is also Chelsea Truck Company, so we definitely expect the best treatment that can be offered for this car. We know that Kahn Design likes to make thing perfect inside and out, so let’s see what they have done to the exterior of the beautiful Wrangler.

Exterior

The CJ300 LE has a vibrant paint scheme, called Volcanic Rock. It has been contrasted via Satin Black door handles, mirrors, roof and fuel filler cap. The same grayish theme is used for the front where we see two shadow chrome headlights, sitting on either side of the four-slot Chelsea Tuck Company grille with industrial mesh.

We can assure you that this vehicle is Kahn’s via the new Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover, Kahn enamel tailgate logo, and fender shields. Silver Platinum 20-inch Jeep 1986 wheels were fitted with 275/55/20″ tyres, behind which sit Liquid Gold brake callipers. At last grabbing the attention is the quad cross-hair exhaust system sitting beneath the rear bumper.

Interior

Kahn Jeep Wrangler Sahara CTC Interior

Proceeding to the interior, it is as luxurious as you might imagine it to be, if you are following closely Kahn’s work. It can’t be viewed from the outside, because up front is a privacy-tinted glass. Once you step inside, you experience the comfortability of brand new front and rear seats wrapped in quilted and perforated black leather. By the way, the same approach has been used for the centre console and arm rests.

The last details were added with the stainless steel door entry sill plates, toughened rubber floor mats, and machined vented foot pedals. And there is a complement by the tuner. The person who will get this beautiful machine will also receive an elegant Chelsea Truck Company watch with machined Stainless Steel case with black PVD coating and tough mineral glass. The perfect attribute for this beautiful Wrangler, isn’t it?

Source: Kahn Design

November 20, 2015

Did Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Impress Us Really?

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Front View Subaru has finally let the cat out of the bag. If you have followed us regularly, then you know that we have been expecting company’s Impreza Sedan Concept. The debut of the car happened at the Los Angeles Auto Show. We have told you already that the concept vehicle will express Subaru’s new way of envisioning the design of its vehicles. This means that it will implement the design language called Dynamic x Solid. In general, it is characterized by sportier forms, less angular proportions and powerful stance. But are we happy with it?

The Details

Let’s see in details what we have here. The body size of the car, overall length × width × height, is 179.3” × 70” × 57.2”. It is built over a wheelbase of 105.1”, meaning that the car has to ride on appropriate tires. Hence, Subaru did not doubt for a minute but added the huge 235/40 R19 rubbers, which play significant role in Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. These inviting proportions are perfect for the comfortable ride of 5 persons.

The Impreza sedan concept definitely looks aerodynamically enhanced. This is because of the combination of functionality and styling. In addition, the character lines further enhance the dynamics of the compact sedan. As a show vehicle, the car is painted in the eye-catching Ruby Red Metallic color with glossy black accents, but this isn’t accidental. It represents a sporty and energetic impression that ha car wants to imprint on future buyers.

Front, Sides & Rear Design

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Rear and Side View

The front of the car features the characteristic for Subaru hexagonal grille, menacing hawk-eye headlights and aircraft inspired wing. At the sides we see flared fenders with sharp character line running through the whole length of the car. There is also another upswept character line along the lower door panels.

The design of the back of the Impreza Sedan continues the sharp lines via the rear tail lamps, which have wide and low illumination (just like those at the front). The trunk is sleek, thus adding to the sporty impression on the sedan. So we definitely find the rear of the concept very interesting.

But is a production vehicle like this necessary, since its design looks far away from the characteristic for the brand language? Maybe many won’t be happy with it, but it is a mater of time to see whether the Dynamic x Solid design language will prosper. When a production version of the Impreza Sedan Concept will appear, it is not known so far.

Source: Subaru

November 19, 2015

Nissan JUKE Stinger Editions by Color Studio Mimic the Bumblebee

Nissan JUKE Stinger Editions Yellow and Black Nissan JUKE Stinger Editions by Color Studio looks just like the Bumblebee! Of course, there is no other reason than its exterior colors which are black and yellow. Featuring the SV trim of the famous JUKE, this one is really tough to ignore. The so called “Color Studio” is actually a program, which allows you to personalize your vehicle through thousands of combinations of special color accessories. And this program is not only available for the JUKE, it will be soon featured for the Versa Note.

There are actually two variants prepared by Color Studio: Black Stinger Edition and Yellow Stinger Edition. They have in common that they both will be produced in a limited run, but also they have the same yellow interior, including JUKE’s signature painted center console.

Black & Yellow

Nissan JUKE Black Stinger Editions

Let’s start with the Yellow Stinger Edition. It is characterized by black-painted outside mirrors, door handles, rear spoiler and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The contrasting yellow is featured on the front and rear bumper, center console, power window switch plates, air vent rings, steering wheel stitching, shift knob accent. Inside, the seats have been designed in unique black and yellow theme including the cloth for the door trim inserts.

Except for the exterior design scheme, the Black Stinger Edition is the same inside as the aforementioned one. Precisely, it is the opposite of the Yellow Stinger, meaning that it includes yellow-painted outside mirrors, door handles, rear spoiler; black-painted 17-inch alloys and yellow-painted front and rear bumper accents. Yellow is also the color choice for the center console, power window switch plates, air vent rings, steering wheel stitching, shift knob accent.

The option pack Stinger Edition has a starting price over the regular pricing of the JUKE SV. It is $990 USD. If you are considering buying it, you should also prepare at least $22,300 USD for the front-wheel drive model of the JUKE SV. The all wheel drive variant is $24,150 USD.

As an option, the Color Studio offers other black or yellow accessories, such as a hatch handle finisher, lower hatch accent, side door sills, headlight trim rings, floor mats and yellow center wheel caps.

Nissan JUKE Stinger Editions will be available on the market in January.

Source: Nissan

November 19, 2015

Track-Bred Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport Debuts in L.A.

Track-Bred Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport Side View Meet the Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport rally car. It just debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new sports car is the perfect vehicle for ‘recreational and club racing’. The mid-engined racer is based on the successful street-legal Cayman GT4. But that isn’t the only thing they share in common. The racing sibling is powered by the same engine, namely the 3.8-litre flat-six unit, which is positioned behind the driver’s seat.

Nonetheless the transmission had to be changed a little be to be in accordance with the new racing spirit of the car. Here we have a modified six-speed Porsche double clutch with shift paddles on the steering wheel and a mechanical rear-axle locking differential.

Furthermore, we have lightweight strut on the front and rear axle, which has been borrowed from the 911 GT3 Cup. Brakes are also sporty and come on all four corners. They measure the impressively 380-millimetre and are made of steel. At the front however are fitted one-piece, six-piston aluminium fixed callipers, while the rear got four-piston equivalent. There is also anti-lock brake system, which can be adjusted in twelve stages.

Track-Bred Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport Rear

Appropriately for racing, the Electronic Stability Programme has been expanded for slicks, while the power steering here is operated electro-mechanically. Other facts speak also of racing characteristics. The weight is definitely one of them, because the Porsche tips the scales at 1,300 kilograms. Other features with the same purpose include welded-in safety cage, a racing bucket seat and six-point harness.

The alloys are also captivating: at the front we see 18-inch five-bolt forged rims with Michelin tyres, while the rear has 18-inch five-bolt forged rims with bigger tires.

Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport is priced at 111,000 euro and the sales are currently starting with the show.

Source: Porsche

November 19, 2015

Meet the Strongest Audi TT RS on the Planet!

HPerformance Audi TT RS Front View Despite, the strong start of the auto show in Los Angeles, there are other ‘things’ going on in the automotive world and we should not deprive you from them. An instance is the latest project of the HPerformance based on the Audi TT RS. As a matter of fact, the tuning team claims that this is the worldwide strongest TT RS ever produced and the reason for this is that it pumps out 750 PS.

The team has already dealt with this model, but the horses it achieved were no more than 510 (read in the article in the link below). However, this time these talented guys were brave enough to create a TT RS worth of the number 750. And it might really be the strongest among all Audi TT RS cars out there.

HPerformance Audi TT RS Engine

At the heart of the customization is the modified GTX-35 turbocharger. It was applied to an in-house-made exhaust manifold. How about the cooling? It happens via company’s own charge air cooler. The air feed is guaranteed by a 90 mm air intake and it goes out through 90 mm Clubsport exhaust system.

Furthermore, the fuel feed was also ‘touched’ a little bit with the help of a modified high-pressure fuel pump and new optimized injectors. Audi R8 ceramics brake system was also installed, in order to tame the wild 750 PS.

At last, prepare to see more from the TT RS soon, because HPerformance is currently working on a tuning kit, which will trespass this power range too. Stay tuned!

Source: HPerformance

November 18, 2015

2016 Chevy Cruze Goes on Sale Next Spring. Pricing Starts at $17,495 USD

2016 Chevrolet Cruze Front View Do you remember when Chevy revealed the redesigned and re-engineered 2016 Cruze model? You probably might have missed it, since it was unveiled in the beginning of this summer. Well, the compact sedan, roomier than ever before, is going on sale around the United States and will be available in dealerships next spring.

Larger, lighter and roomier are the three words that describe very well the sedan. The car has two more inches of rear knee room and a lot of standard features, which are very cool. Take for instance the Chevrolet MyLink radio with a 7-inch-diagonal screen, the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, as well as a standard rear-view camera.

Optional goodies in terms of connectivity include the famous OnStar 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The Cruze from the new model year will be offered in L, LS, LT and Premier trim levels. Regardless the grade, each car will be equipped with the new direct-injected 1.4L turbo engine generates, which produces 153 horsepower (113 kW) and 177 lb-ft of torque (240 Nm). The standard transmission is six-speed manual, but those who like an automatic transmission can get one starting from the LS trim.

2016 Chevrolet Cruze Interior

At last, depending on the model there are offered active safety features like Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert. 2016 Chevrolet Cruze has a starting price of $17,495 USD for the L grad with manual transmission.

Suggested pricing for all models:

L manual – $17,495
LS manual – $18,995
LS automatic – $19,995
LT automatic- $21,995
Premier automatic – $23,995.

Source: Chevrolet

November 18, 2015

PREMIERE: Lamborghini Huracan LP 580-2 is a Two-Wheel Drive Typhoon

Lamborghini Huracan LP 580-2 Front and Side View Lamborghini has just presented the Huracán LP 580-2. Believe it or not, this is a two-wheel drive version of the Huracán coupe that was specifically created for its unusual drive set-up. With its naturally aspirated V10 5.2 l engine, it puts out 580 hp (426 kW) to the rear axle. In addition, it is also 33 kg lighter than the four-wheel-drive version, weighing a total of 1,389 kg.

The weight distribution is 40% at the front / 60% at the rear, thus reducing the inertia on the front axle. In addition, the car-maker has changed a little bit the suspension, added a new steering set-up and recalibrated the stability and traction controls. There are also three selectable Lamborghini driving modes, namely the STRADA, SPORT and CORSA. They have been also modified to deliver over-steering characteristics that highlight the special driving mode.

Different Design?

The Italian company also says that the Huracán LP 580-2 is very different from the four wheel drive version. Let’s check the details to find out why. First, the front and rear have been redesigned. Every detail emphasizes an aesthetic function combined with aerodynamic purposes. The new front air intakes direct the cooling air and headwind to optimize the down pressure on the front axle.

Furthermore, the spoiler lip at the back works together with the rising diffuser, improving the airflow at the rear. There is more: the Huracán LP 580-2 now sits on new 19-inch Kari rims fitted with Pirelli PZero tyres.

Let’s Talk in Numbers

Lamborghini Huracan LP 580-2 Rear View

Huracán’s V10 5.2 l naturally aspirated, mid-mounted engine has also been reengineered to fit the new car. As mentioned it produces 580 hp (426 kW) and 540 Nm of torque. Despite these numbers the fuel consumption is not that big. It has been estimated at 11.9 l per 100 km on the combined circle, while the CO2 emissions are as low as 278 g/km.

Maybe the weight savings play a significant part here. Huracán LP 580-2 achieves a weight to power ratio of just 2.4 kg/hp! And this is because it uses hybrid aluminum and carbon fiber chassis that lower the weight. In addition, the torsional stiffness of the supercar is improved by 50% compared to the Gallardo LP 550-2.

We haven’t said anything about the transmission. This Lambo uses a Lamborghini Doppia Frizione (LDF) seven-speed dual clutch gearshift. It makes sure that the driver changes the gears faster than ever before. As an option, the automaker is offering Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) which improves car’s agility and controllability.

Lamborghini Piattaforma Inerziale (LPI) is a sensor system placed in the center of gravity of the car. It traces 3D movements and provides real time information to the optional Magneto Rheological Suspension (MRS).

Which One to Chose and How Much to Prepare?

The LP 580-2 will be available in every Huracán external and internal trim as well as with the Ad Personam program. The supercar will be available at dealerships with a starting price of 150.000 euros.

Source: Lamborghini

November 18, 2015

BMW M6 GT3 Street Legal Doppelganger by M&D. Yes, it exists!

M&D BMW 650i PD6XX GT3 Front View - Exterior PD6XX GT3 is the name of a very special project made by the talented tuners at M&D Exclusive Cardesign. Believe it or not it is based on the 650i F13 BMW, although it looks a lot like the M6 series. Actually, BMW recently unveiled the M6 GT3 announcing it as the new GT3 category challenger for the 2016 motorsports season. And as much as we like it, we are 100% sure, that the car won’t see the streets. Here the M&D specialists step in and they offer us a solution: a street legal doppelganger.

Wide-Body Aero Kit

The transformation of the 650i F13 starts with the addition of an aero wide-body kit. First, it includes front bumper with enlarged front air intakes. There is also a front splitter and dive planes on each side, which act in terms of reducing lift. Then, the wheel arches both front and rear were extended and are housing wider wheels, too. A new bonnet with a prominent power bulge speaks of an enhanced twin-turbo V8 motor beneath.

The side skirts are more prominent now and they merge into the new rear bumper, which in turn has received four big exhaust tailpipes. At last, the aero kit also adds a boot-lid mounted spoiler that helps to reduce lift over the rear axle.

Wheels & Suspension

M&D BMW 650i PD6XX GT3 Rear and Side View - Exterior

PD6XX GT3 project car runs on in-house made three-piece Rennen Forged Type R-55 alloy wheels in 10.0 and 11.0×21-inch sizes, at the front and rear, respectively. These alloys were shod with 255/30R21 and 295/25R21 ultra-low profile Continental Sport Contact 5 tires. As you can see, the wheels are deeply dished and are painted in matte gold, with the outer rims in a glossy gold. But can you spot that the interior surfaces and wheel bolts are painted in black. Finished in Racing Red, the big brake calipers stand out behind the wheel spokes. In terms of suspension, the height of the car has been dropped by 30 mm, with the help of lower sport springs.

Other Advantages of the Exterior

M&D tuners are also specialists in foil wrapping. They have applied the red and blue BMW motorsport colors to the mineral white base car in a pattern that clearly mimics the dynamic color scheme of the M6 GT3. What is more, several exterior parts were also emphasized with gloss black paint to create strong visual contrast, while the bonnet includes colorful flashes in Racing Red, black and blue.

ECU & Exhaust

M&D BMW 650i PD6XX GT3 Exhaust Tailpipes

The standard engine under the hood of the 650i F13 is the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, which produces 408 hp (300 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. After an ECU software optimization however, the unit is more forceful and boasts 495 hp (364 kW) with 722 Nm (533 lb-ft) of torque.

At last but not least, custom-made sports exhaust system with X-pipe and a pair of rear silencers and 80 mm diameter black chrome finish tailpipes, help in the production of throaty sound.

Despite BMW M6 GT3 will ever make it to the streets, we are definitely sure that the PD6XX GT3 is a worthy doppelganger! Oh, and by the way, have I mentioned that the car in the pictures below is for sale?

Source: M&D Exclusive Cardesign

November 17, 2015

DMC Shows Winged Huracan LP610 Cairo Edition

Lamborghini Huracan LP610 Cairo Edition Front View DMC has just sent us their latest project and we are impatient to show it to you. It involves the Lamborghini Huracan and it stands under the designation LP610 Cairo Edition. The special project was made by DMC’s division in the Middle East. The photos you see in this article are product of the work of the photographer Hexham Alsaigh. Although it is not as grandeur as the previous DMC Huracan with 1088HP, this one has its advantages.

Wing with Three Settings

One of the most characteristic components in this program is the wing spoiler. It is supported by a deck under it and. It can be adjusted to three angle settings, including Choose City Cruising, GT Track day or Fun Mode. Each mode was individually wind tunnel and CFD tested.

Wheels & Tires

Lamborghini Huracan LP610 Cairo Edition Rear View

To make it even more attractive, the Middle East division of DMC decided to change the wheels of the Huracan. Hence they also needed to add new tires for the bigger alloys they intended to add.

As a result, the LP610 Cairo Edition runs on forged wheels in a 20″/21″ setup. By the way they are the widest sets in the market so far. To go into details, the front got a technical set up of 20×8,5-inch, wile the rear then showcases specification of 21×12-inch.

A proper set of tires is necessary, meaning that this DMC is using a 245/30r20 and 325/25r21 tire combination. Softer P-Zero application is possible as well.

Source: DMC

November 17, 2015

Volkswagen Beetle Denim: More Attractive than the Dune?

Volkswagen Beetle Denim Exterior Volkswagen Beetle Denim is here to pay tribute to the legendary Beetle Jeans model from the 70s. The car has just been launched in the United States with the aim to offer a modern take on the model. Since it is a special edition, it is logical that it will be produced in a limited run. Precisely, its exclusive design elements have been added to the 2,000 production units.

Under the hood, the famous Bug hides 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, helping the car generate no less than 170 horsepower (125 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque.

Exterior

Just like any other Beetle, this one has the characteristic stance with the iconic posture and reminiscence of not-forgotten past. This limited edition will be offered in two exterior colors, including Pure White or Stonewashed Blue. The latter is featured in our gallery below. Volkswagen said that the production run will be split equally between the two colors, meaning that each will have 1000 numbers.

SEE ALSO: 2016 Volkswagen Dune Is Here!

It is inevitable to see that the convertible top has been finished in Dark Blue. But what amazes is that the fabric for the top seems exactly like denim jeans. Don’t worry; this is a brand new textured fabric that just resembles denim.

Interior

Volkswagen Beetle Denim Interior

Inside, the Beetle looks as cool. The cabin features exclusive design with unique light-blue-and-silver dashboard and jeans-inspired seat pockets with small Beetle tabs in red. What is more, the light blue denim-color cloth seating surfaces also include white piping and dark blue leatherette accents.

The occupants of this special edition Volkswagen will also enjoy goodies such as company’s new MIB II infotainment system. It will offer them the convenience of higher resolution, faster processing speeds, and crisper graphics. In addition, the 5.0-inch resistive touchscreen display comes with wide variety of standard features like the AUX-in, SD card slots, and a USB multimedia interface with iPhone and iPod device connectivity, reverse camera display, and Bluetooth technology for compatible devices.

Who’s among the first 1000 for the Stonewashed Blue Beetle Denim? Or do you prefer the Dune?