Author: Lidia Todorova

CivicX Imagines 2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype

2017 Honda Civic Type R Hatchback Prototype was revealed in the famous Civic CivicX.com forum. The pictures have been created by the digital artist Damian, who has been inspired after seeing the recently released spy shots of the car. What Damian has done is to peel off the camouflage wrapping of the next Type R. The result is spectacular and we couldn’t help but publish it straight away.As CivicX says, the spy photos were ‘deciphered’ and they depict Type R’s lines and styling elements as they are going to be in production form. In fact, the result is said to be extremely close to what the production car is going to look like.

SEE ALSO: Take a Look at this Coupe-Inspired Honda Civic Type R

Very intriguing seems to be the new front fenders, which let us think that they could be used to draw hot air from the engine. Or should they provide extra cooling for the rubbers? Spy shots of the car also suggest that it has 3-outlet exhaust. So, are we going to expect more loudly sound coming from it? Well, we should have to wait until the production release and then to press the +R button to get the real impression.And how about the output? Of course, everything has been kept in secret but we definitely expect to see more horsepower in comparison to Type R’s current one. Speaking of which, it comes out from a 4-cyllinder 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, producing 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm and torque of 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).2017 Honda Civic Type R hatchback is going to be based on the tenth generation Honda’s global platform. Its production is going to start at company’s UK plant in 2017.

October 29, 2015
Kia Goes Bad For SEMA with Forte Koup Mud Bogger

Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger is one of the six custom vehicles that the company is going to present at the SEMA Show this year. The ‘car’ looks like it is chasing adventures and this definitely intrigues us, because Kia said that each of the hand-built concepts showcases unique geographic regions found throughout the country.

This of course has its aim and it is to show the variety of car cultures that define America’s way of looking at automobiles. If you wonder which part of the US is representing the Forte Koup Mud Bogger, we should immediately tell you that it is the wild American South. But you probably have already figured this, since the image depicts the inexplicable joy of getting dirty on all fours.

SEE ALSO: Kia cee’d Lineup Receives Some New Engines

And even with a single look at this unique Koup, we can surely say that it can tackle any extreme terrain. This is because of its huge four-inch body and suspension lift as well as the gigantic 28-inch off-road rubbers.

It is necessary to add that to accommodate the massive wheel and tire combination, Kia has widened the fenders and side skirts and added extra riveted fender flares. Another cool thing about this Bogger is that it features rather luxurious panoramic roof with a vinyl pushback top. This is how the sun can shine over the stripped-down interior where the carpet has been removed and the entire floor has been lined with Line-X protective coating.

How about the stock seats? They have all been replaced with two Sparco Evo II Red Race Seats and hand-built roll cage in powder coated white. To sum up, the Kia Forte Koup Mud Bogger is definitely for those looking for off-road fun that will take them to a road less traveled.

Source: Kia

October 29, 2015

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Revealed at 44th Tokyo Motor Show

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle has been just unveiled at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show. Since Honda is the pioneer of hydrogen fuel cell technology, it was about time to make a step forward regarding this ‘eco’-matter. The next generation car previews best-in-class range comparable to fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The good news is that even though the model has just made its Japanese debut, it will be also distributed in selected European markets next year.

In short, the car incorporates company’s latest and most advanced technologies. As a matter of fact, this is world’s first production fuel cell powered sedan that houses entire fuel cell stack and drivetrain system instead of normal engine and transmission.

Furthermore, the Clarity Fuel Cell also has space for five persons, meaning that the size of the fuel cell stack and the power generation unit have been minimized via advanced technologies to the V6 engine’s size. The output of the car is also comparable to a V6 one, and it measures 177 hp (130 kW).

The high-pressure tank inside of the car stores hydrogen gas at 70 MPa. This in turn increases the mass of the hydrogen that can be stored and extending the range of the vehicle. When you have in mind that it is coupled with the efficient powertrain and vehicle’s energy consumption is reduced that you can also make the conclusion that the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves rather excellent vehicle range per full tank of over 700 km (435miles). And the best part is that it only takes three minutes to fill the tank.

Design of Clarity Fuel Cell

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle Interior

Next to the 177 hp, this car also has stunning appearance. Clarity Fuel Cell’s exterior has strong aerodynamic profile, full-LED headlights up front and sharp, slender profile highlighted by the 18-inch alloys.

Inside, the hydrogen sedan combines its advanced atmosphere with refined atmosphere. The driver for instance enjoys advanced interface, which utilizes Honda’s design principles of instant recognition and intuitive control. As mentioned, the interior is simple and spacious, and includes premium materials that will make sure that the occupant’s experience is at its best.

Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is going to be launched in limited number in European markets next year. The hydrogen car is scheduled to be commercially available in Japan from early 2016.

Fuel cell technical specifications:

Length (mm)	4,895
Width (mm)	1,875
Height (mm)	1,475
Occupants	5
Range per full tank (km)	Over 7001
Refuelling time	Approx. 3 minutes
Maximum fuel cell output (kW)	Over 100
Fuel stack output density (kW/L)	3.1
Maximum motor output (kW)	130
Maximum hydrogen tank pressure (MPa)	70
Energy storage method	Lithium-ion battery

Source: Honda

October 29, 2015

Performance & Distinctive Style: Greet the Latest Porsche Macan GTS

Porsche Macan GTS in its latest form has just been revealed. The exclusive vehicle comes with increased performance, upgraded chassis and characteristic style. In short, the sports SUV has received re-engineered chassis, and an additional 20 hp for its engine. In addition, its brakes have been improved and they will definitely speak to those who are keen on dynamic driving. Some of the latest styling highlights feature GTS motifs. Here are the details.

Performance

Under the hood of this Porsche sleeps the 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V6 engine that we know from the Macan S and the Macan Turbo. It has been aided with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) seven-speed transmission and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) that sends distribution the power to all four wheels. As a result we have 360 hp and 500 Nm of torque coming out from a new sports exhaust system.

SEE ALSO: Meet 669 HP Porsche 911 Turbo S Powered by O.CT Tuning

Therefore, Macan GTS is capable of accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in only 5.2 seconds. If you want faster results, then you have to add the available Sport Chrono package, which will reduced this time to 5.0 seconds. The top speed is limited to 160 mph. This of course is balanced by fuel economy of up to 31.4 mpg/combined and CO2emissions of 212 g/km.

Chassis

The details here include tuned Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) that lowers the car by 15mm. New wheels are obligatory and they come in size of 20-inch and in the RS Spyder design in matt black.

Interior

The cabin is definitely luxurious. It features ‘GTS’ sport seats with Alcantara centre panels as well as additional Alcantara interior trim. Not to mention the floor mats and the multi-function steering wheel with gearshift paddles. Making a debut in the Macan model is the new Porsche Communication Management with a touch-screen monitor. The satellite navigation is optional as is the Connect Plus module.

Exterior

The special looks of the Macan GTS are attributed to its exterior accents in black. They include high gloss above the waistline and in a lustrous matt finish in the lower areas of the body. The optional Sport Design styling package comes in GTS-specific coloring, while the LED headlights are offered for the first time on a Macan. They also have to be specified.

Porsche Macan GTS has a starting price of £55,188.

Source: Porsche

October 28, 2015
Mazda Unveils Tokyo-Bound RX-VISION Concept

Mazda RX-VISION Concept is one of the main attractions at the Tokyo Motor Show. The car previews the future plans of the brand in terms of design end engine technology. Since Mazda is creating one of the most attractive cars nowadays, just looking at the pictures of this incredibly beautiful car, and you’ll know why we are really looking forward to the implementation of it’s design in the future.

SKYACTIV-R Rotary Engine

Believe it or not, the most exciting thing about this vehicle is not its shape and color, but its powertrain. The RX-VISION is powered by the next-generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine. In fact, Mazda sees new potential in the powerplant that is ‘synonymous with the brand’ as it states. In other words, the engine is built over an unconventional technology that is one of the most compelling symbols of the carmaker’s challenger spirit.

SEE ALSO: Mazda Sports Car Concept Teased Ahead of Tokyo Premiere

The front-engine unit is exquisitely proportioned, it drives the rear-wheels and as Mazda says, it ‘represents a “vision” of the future that could only come from Mazda’. You might ask what is so special about the rotary engines. They are unique because they generate power through the rotational motion of triangular rotors. For comparison, the conventional engines have reciprocating pistons.

Mazda has already used rotary power in the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967 and then in Mazda RX-7, which was the most successful model produced between 1978 and 2002, and with 800 000 units sold.

Now, with the new rotary engine, called SKYACTIV-R, the carmaker expresses its determination and aim to delivering its customers convention-defying technology and an uncompromising SKYACTIV experience behind the wheel.

And if you happen to be in Tokyo, go see the RX-VISION Concept. Tokyo Motor Show opens for public visits from 30 October to 8 November.

Source: Mazda

October 28, 2015
Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept & WRX STI S207 Debut in Tokyo

Subaru has debuted today not one but two cars: the Impreza 5-Door Concept and the Japan-only WRX STI S207 limited edition. The little sad fact here is that the S207 is intended for Japanese public, as mentioned above. Follow my thoughts and you’ll know why.

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept

Let’s start with the concept vehicle. It is an example how the company is envisioning its next generation Impreza and the design of its future vehicles in general. First, the car is as functional as we can expect it to be. This of course does not hamper it from delivering the best possible aerodynamic performance while blending form with function.

SEE ALSO: Subaru WRX STI NR4: the Sportier and More Aggressive WRX You Need to See

The contemporary styling of the vehicle is further emphasized via the luminous silver exterior color. In addition, the design study also exhibits a wide and low stance, which is one of the innate qualities of the brand.

New is the hexagonal grille, while the concept’s front combination lamps exhibit a bold reinterpretation of company’s famous ‘hawk-eye’ headlights. The clean lines of the design of the car extend from the front wheel arch to the rear shoulders. The form of the front and rear lights express a powerful, modern look, with the sharp lines, thus enhancing the sporty silhouette of the concept.

Subaru WRX STI S207 Limited Edition

As I have said earlier it is really sad to know that the WRX STI S207 Limited Edition is going to be limited to the Japanese market. Just 400 units will be produced of it. It is built over the WRX STI sports saloon, but includes specially-tuned engine with a higher power output that has been rated now to 328 PS.

As you can expect, this vehicle is super-quick, and features the well-known for Subaru precise handling. Speaking of which, it has been modified through the adoption of a quicker steering ratio of 11.0:1, developing the involving and immediate character of the WRX STI. The front bumper design has been upgraded as well and the S207 also features larger rear spoiler. Unfortunately, Subaru has no plans to bring the special edition to United States or Europe.

Source: Subaru

October 28, 2015
The Super Bug or How KBR Motorsport and SEK-Carhifi Made the Most Inspiring Volkswagen Beetle

KBR Motorsport and SEK-Carhifi has gathered together to create the most inspiring Volkswagen Beetle we have seen so far. It is not coincidental that they also call it the ‘Super Bug’. A lot of modifications have been happening here and we can’t wait to tell you all about them. What you have to know in the beginning is that the KBR Motorsport took care of the classic tuning of the Beetle, while the SEK Carhifi team installed a custom high-end sound system using Ground Zero and Pioneer components.

KBR Motorsport’s Classic Tuning

The first thing that the experts had to do was to install big round wheel arches with huge wheels to fill them out. Therefore they chose 9.5J x 20-inch Oxigin 14 Oxrock multi-spoke alloy wheels in black finish with white foil, and then they have shod them with 235/30ZR20 Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tyres.

SEE ALSO: KBR Motorsport and the Fierce BMW M3 Clubsport

Furthermore, the Beetle also received better red front brakes and four-pot alloy brake calipers that clamp vented discs with surface grooves. The rear brakes are standard. They have been only painted in red to match the front ones. H&R coil-over suspension kit lowered the car further.

Under the hood of the VW, sits the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It was fitted with a turbo-back three-inch diameter stainless steel sports exhaust to reduce back-pressure, before remapping the ECU. Thanks to the engine dyno, it now shows 265 hp (195 kW) and 415 Nm (306 lb-ft) of torque.

KBR Motorsport did also another thing, this time regarding the interior. They have replaced the factory front seats with figure-hugging Recaro Sportster CS sports seats whose backs are color-coded white to match the car’s bodywork and interior trim panels.

SEK Carhifi and the Custom Audio Installation

The sound system delivered and installed by the experts at SEK Carhifi is more than spectacular. The 1,700 W sound system is actually Pioneer’s dashboard mounted flagship AVIC-F77DAB Navigation/AV head-unit, which feeds its audio signals to the three power amplifiers via a Ground Zero GZCS 6-8DSP eight-channel DSP unit housed in the passenger footwell.

The 6.5-inch mid-bass units replace the OE speakers in the door panels. Alubutyl dampening has been applied to the latter in order to eliminate any spurious resonances. Moreover, opening the rear hatch reveals that the luggage compartment which now houses 10-inch diameter Ground Zero GZPW 10SPL subwoofer. Its power comes from a single 600 W GNZA 1.2250XII monoblock amplifier mounted under the boot floor.

And this is how you create a Super Bug! Want to improve anything?

Source: KBR Motorsport

October 27, 2015

TJIN Edition Genesis is the Last Hyundai We Will See Before SEMA

TJIN Edition Hyundai Genesis Sketch TJIN Edition Hyundai Genesis is rounding out the teaser sketches released by the brand before the official start of the SEMA show in November. Behind this project are the tuners at TJIN and although this is their first official Hyundai vehicle built for SEMA, it promises to be one of the best to see at the event. The experts have been inspired by underground racing, so we are definitely looking forward to seeing it at in the beginning of next week when the show starts.

What do we know about the TJIN’s Genesis Coupe so far? First, since it is this particular model, it will be powered by Hyundai’s 3.8-liter “Lambda” V6 engine. The unit however does not produce the standard output number, but instead due to Vortech supercharger kit built by the power gurus from Bisimoto Engineering, it now pumps out a lot more.

But before speaking about a specific number, we should also tell you that car’s horsepower was uprated via free-flowing exhaust system, Vortech front mount intercooler and blow-off valve. The end result: more than 500 hp (398 kW).

Next, to super-strength of the car is supported by the addition of new Rotiform 19-inch 3-piece HUR wheels. Behind them TJIN added custom Baer x CBA Extreme Plus brake calipers and have wrapped them in Falklen FK345 tires.

This Hyundai also sits lower thanks to KW coilovers. This is why the car also appears to have more aggressive appearance. Unique Fabrication delivered custom front lip, rear spoiler and custom trunk lid. At last, the car was finished in a custom Kylie Tjin Axalta green paint job. More details about this project you can read in the table below. Now you can’t wait until the show, can you? Just like us.

TJIN Edition Hyundai Genesis in Details:

POWERTRAIN MODIFICATIONS

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS

EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

Bisimoto Engineering Supercharger Kit with Vortech V3 Supercharger and Bisimoto Engineering Tune
Bisimoto Exhaust System
Vortech Front Mount Intercooler
Vortech Blow-Off Valve
Optima Battery

KW Coilovers
Custom Baer x CBA Extreme Plus Calipers (front and rear)
Baer Performance Brake Pads
Baer 14-in. Cross-Drilled Rotors
Baer Steel Brake Lines
Downstar Bolts and Lug Nuts
Rotiform 19-in. 3-Piece HUR Wheels
Falken AZENIS FK453 Tires

Custom Kylie Tjin Axalta Green Paint Job
Unique Fabrication Front Lip
Unique Fabrication Metal Trunk Lid
Unique Fabrication Rear Wing
LightWurkz Headlights
Safety 1st LED Lighting

Unique Fabrication Roll Cage
Custom Alea Leather Interior

Source: Hyundai

October 27, 2015

xXx Performance Creates 690HP Lamborghini Huracán

xXx Performance Lamborghini Huracan is an example how an Italian sports car can be finessed in Germany so well that it eventually got better. The “Hurricane” character of this Lambo model is supported by the potent 5.2-liter V10 engine, which dispenses 610 hp (449 kW) to all four wheels through the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. But the figure did not speak to the hearts of the tuners from Germany. So this was the reason they decided to improve the power output of the Italian bull.

Engine Uprating

The V10 powering the Huracan was upgraded via new air intake, a sound flap control stainless steel sport exhaust to reduce backpressure and an ECU remap. The result? The unit now porduces 690 hp (507 lkW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque. Isn’t that nice?

SEE ALSO: xXx Performance Juice the Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro

Attractive Exterior

After the tuning of the powerplant, we can surely say that the Lamborghini will move more rapidly than ever. And all you will catch is a green flash as it blows by. Why green? Because the experts did use Chrome Lime Matt foil body wrap applied to car’s lines, which further emphasize its untamed character.

The unique bright body colour has been perfectly complemented by the attractive Oxforged 4 one-piece forged alloy wheels delivered by OXIGIN. They come in sizes 9×20 and 12.5×21 inch and are coupled with 245/30R20 and 325/25R21 low profile tyres, at the front and rear respectively. Their milled front polish finish adds to their one-off appearance.

Finally, the tuner decided to lower the car even more and this has happened by the means of H&R lowering springs set. It helps the car get closer to the ground by 25 mm.

Source: xXx Performance

October 27, 2015
Irmscher Opel Astra Program is Ready for Launch

Irmscher is one of the tuning companies, which is hard to see very often. The first reason for this is that they are working only with Opel (Vauxhall) vehicles. The second: they are doing this for 47 years now, and this means that they are really good in it! Now, the modification specialists are absolutely ready with the launch of their new program for the latest Opel Astra.

Visually Better Astra

Irmscher improved the visual stance of the car with some simple changes that prove to be very effective. The biggest change is probably the grille. The original one was substituted with the classic Irmscher radiator grille that gives the Astra even more dynamic appearance for its front. Depending on customer’s wish the radiator grille can be made from stainless steel or carbon fiber.

SEE ALSO: Irmscher Releases Special Edition Opel Insignia is3 Called ‘Bandit’

The more athletic stance has been further reinforced with the lowering, which in this case is 30mm. This ensures maximum traction especially when it comes to curves. The lower stance is also supported by the new wheel. Irmscher is offering a wide variety of wheel designs, but the most exclusive ones are 19-inch of HighStar or Aerostar variety and are finished in diamond-polished black. 16-inch and 17-inch versions are also available.

At last, the design of the Astra is highlighted by the foil strips added to accentuate vehicle’s contours. The strips set is available in different colors.

More Power?

A power output increase is also available for both diesel and gasoline variants. The boost is actually currently being tested and will be introduced shortly. The performance gains are expected to be of up to 30 hp.

Source: Irmscher

October 26, 2015
Is This The Next Generation Nissan Leaf?

‘Together we ride to Tokyo’ is what Nissan has to say about this image. The Japanese company also revealed that this is the ‘future vision of car intelligence and electrification’ and that the car from the teaser image will be previewed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. Since we know these facts, it is perfectly logical to ask whether this could be the next Nissan Leaf.

And since we have made a highlighted version of the image, which is shown below, it surely speaks in favor of our theory, doesn’t it? However, Nissan might have different plans for the future and might want to introduce a brand new model line which will be based on this concept. In other words, we should be expecting everything.

SEE ALSO: Nissan LEAF Range Expands to Fight Global Climate Change

New generation Leaf or not, this vehicle will definitely be 100% electric, have a shape of a compact crossover and feature exclusive exterior styling and highly technological interior. Furthermore, if we recall facts well, back in September Nissan released a report stating that a new version of the Leaf (which is intended only for Tokyo) will use brand new batteries.

The new battery pack will offer a driving range of up to 400 km (250 miles). Compare this to the current Leaf and you’ll get how big the step forward is. Precisely, the current generation Leaf can go on a single battery charge up to 250 km (150 miles). At last, we should also say that the new battery technology will also be used in vehicles like an electrified crossover and luxurious sedan.

Source: Nissan

October 26, 2015
Honda Ridgeline Desert Race Truck Concept Debuts at SEMA

Honda Ridgeline was previewed in the beginning of this year at the Chicago Auto Show. Now, it is time for the loved Japanese brand to debut another concept vehicle based on the Ridgeline, precisely – Honda Ridgeline Desert Race Truck Concept, which will make a first appearance at SEMA. Note that the sketch featured in the article displays the previews in Chicago, but the good news is that the new ‘Desert’ pickup is debuting next year.

SEE ALSO: 2016 Honda Ridgeline Previewed in Chicago

What do we know about the Ridgeline Desert Race Truck? First, it is obvious that it will offer additional styling direction of the anticipated Ridgeline pickup. Secondly, the “racing Ridgeline” also marks company’s re-entry into Honda Performance Development (HPD)-powered factory off-road racing.

HR-Vs and CR-Z

In addition, SEMA visitors will also see HR-V project vehicles, which will bring excitement through extreme performance and individuality. The HR-Vs were built in collaboration with several tuning houses.

Next to them, the 2016 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe is going to make first appearance in North American. It will show its aggressive new exterior styling and significantly improved interior. Accessorized versions of the 2016 Honda Civic Sedan and 2016 Honda Pilot will also have a place at the show.

Honda Powersports and HPD

The real action will happen on Honda Powersports hits show floor, where guests of the show will enjoy viewing the Moto GP Race Replica RC213V-S, Pioneer 1000 and more. At last, Honda will once again host the Honda Soiree at Hakkasan Nightclub at the MGM Grand.

Source: Honda

October 26, 2015