Lidia Todorova – Page 86 – Automobiles Review

Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau. A Must See Project!

Citroen Cx Gti Turbo Flying Car Some of the strangest ideas end up the best ones eventually! Just imagine what would have happened if Steve Jobs has never envisioned the touchscreen or its revolutionary software programs. Or let’s take it a step further, image what would happen if Nicola Tesla wasn’t that persistent with its rebellious (for that time) idea of distributing electricity to everyone. Of course, he has envisioned this to happen free of charge, but still the world isn’t the same after electricity stepped in.

Now, imagine cars without wheels. I’m sure you’ll find this task very hard, because it’s probably beyond comprehension. But for this reason we have talented graphic designers and photographers who can make anything possible, at least virtually.

One of them is the French designer and photographer Sylvain Viau, who is an expert in both photography and photo manipulation. He has managed not only to imagine the cars without wheels, but also to recreate them onto virtual paper.

The first car he started with was the Citroen Cx Gti Turbo produced in 1984. The model was famous for its very smooth handling and hydraulic suspension system. In fact, it is well known that these cars are also named “flying carpets”. And this is where the French designer got inspired to make this Citroen flying. Literally.

The end result is that in the process he got involved with other cars and is continuously working on transforming them. This project is worth seeing and you can do this below or at Viau’s official Behance profile. And maybe it is time for the world to think about flying cars, isn’t it?

Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 01 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 02 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 03 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 04 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 05 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 06 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 07 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 08 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 09 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 10 Flying Cars by Sylvain Viau 11

Source: Sylvain Viau via Behance

April 15, 2015

Updated Seat Alhambra is More Efficient but More Powerful

Seat Alhambra Front and Side View If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, then you would probably know that some of the scenes are actually filmed in Alhambra in Granada, Spain. This is a very beautiful palace and fortress complex and was originally a very small fortress built in 889 but then dropped behind. What makes it so special is that it was eventually rebuilt in the mid-11th century by the Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar, who has made it famous for its looks. And here is where its name comes from, literally meaning: “the red one”.

But enough history talk, we are here to discuss the new generation Seat Alhambra that was just released and carries by accident (or not) the same name. The first thing to say about this MPV is that it is up to 15 per cent more fuel efficient, despite its increased output. Of course, the reason for this is the updated engine range.

It has been completely revised and all diesel and petrol powertrains in it fulfill the Euro 6 emissions standard. There are two 2.0 TDIs, with the first one delivering 150 hp (110 kW) that corresponds to 57.6 mpg and 130 grams of CO2 per km, and the second one with 184 hp (135 kW) and 380 Nm (288 lb-ft). There is also a 1.4 TSI petrol engine that joins the range and it will produce 150 hp. The optional transmission is the DSG dual-clutch automatic.

Furthermore, the new model is also equipped with SEAT Easy Connect infotainment systems. These comprise of high-resolution touchscreen displays and navigation. The other standard equipment here is the multi-collision brake system. New and optional are the Blind-Spot Sensor, Dynamic Chassis Control and those comforting massage seats.

Sadly, the exterior design of the car hasn’t been changed much. At the back we see LEDs, while at the front there is a new grille and logo of Seat. The wheels also feature different design. Inside, the Alhambra received additional trim colours, the steering wheel is now with SEAT Leon’s design and there is also a keyless entry and start system.

Seat Alhambra will be available in dealerships this summer.

Source: Seat

April 15, 2015

DMC Creates “Elegante” Aero Kit for Ferrari 458 Italia

2015 DMC Ferrari 458 Italia Elegante South Africa Edition Side View What happens when a supreme Italian car meets an exclusive tuner like DMC? You are right if you say that the car becomes even cooler, but what I meant by this question is actually the expansion of DMC’s kits over even more exclusive supercars. The current vehicle under attention is the Ferrari 458 Italia, which is bathing in its exuberant red exterior paint.

And although the luxury tuner usually transforms Lambos, the 458 kits it prepares are staring to evoke more and more glances. We have seen in the past how the 458 Italia has been transformed in 458 Estremo or 458 Monte Carlo limited editions. And they are very, very beautiful.

Now, it is time to get introduced to the 458 Elegante, which received a package that carries the same name. The kit was installed by the South Africans at RACE. The result is spectacular and you can view it below!

“Elegante” body kit gives the Ferrari a whole new and aggressive look thanks to the aerodynamic components it adds. These feature front lips and side skirts as well as some other tiny details which not only look great but also support a better road feel.

Furthermore, as you can see each window has been blacked out. This adds the feel of individuality and seclusion. Added luxury is expressed also via the gold-plated five-spoke wheels. In other words: the car looks out of this world, doesn’t it? We can’t wait seeing the next DMC project!

Source: DMC

April 14, 2015

Volvo Redefines Excellence with Luxury XC90 Edition

Volvo XC90 Excellence Side VIew Are you looking inside of a Rolls-Royce? No. This is Volvo’s XC90 Excellence. The other shocking news is that it has been prepared to debut at the Shanghai International Automobile Show, so we won’t have the chance to get our hands on it. It is actually very sad news, because this is Swedish company’s most luxurious vehicle ever built.

A four-seater, this car has been created with the aim to be individual and distinctive. And so it is. Although it has been based on the XC90, this vehicle has nothing to do with it. The first difference is in the seats: the original version has a plenty of seven, while hear are only four. This of course speaks of more space for the occupants, which is also used to bring about First Class experience.

Speaking of luxury, we should begin at first with the individual rear seats, which are comfortable and include massage, ventilation and more space for the legs. For those lucky to travel at the back, there is a retractable control touchscreen, folding tables and a refrigerator. Inside one finds bottle and glass holders, heating/cooling cup holder and Orrefors handmade crystal glasses. Just like in a proper Rolls-Royce, isn’t it?

There is even more to that, we haven’t mention the footrests for the passengers, ambient lighting inside the cabin, illuminated storage and the leather with so many accents. The luggage compartment is divided via screen, there is additional noise insulation complemented by Pirelli Noise Cancelling System tyres (PNCS).

Furthermore, the XC90 Excellence is also equipped with Bowers & Wilkins audio system with 19 speakers, integrated ionic air cleaner in the CleanZone climate system, leather instrument panel with contrasting stitching and Nabuck leather headliner. Other styling differentiators feature Excellence rank mark, chrome B- and C-pillar cappings and lower door mouldings.

Our regret is only that we can’t be the first to see this unique car. Those in Shanghai will be advantageous. However, XC90 Excellence will be distributed globally later this year, but only in selected markets.

Source: Volvo

April 14, 2015

Kahn Mixes the Defender with Chelsea Wide Track

Chelsea Wide Track is a name which we usually see standing behind A. Kahn Design’s creations. This time, under the expertise of the tuner we see the favorite to many Land Rover Defender TDCI 90. The specialists have changed not only its face, giving it more muscular stance, but also added some exclusivity inside.

At first, let’s take a look at the new design of the Defender. The team at Kahn replaced the original front bumper with new one that includes integrated lights, sump guard, mesh and X-Lander front grille. Then they have added Satin Black extended front and rear wheel arches which also have integrated vents and exposed bolts.

The hood is also covered by the mesh, as are the fender and side vents. At the back we see the spare wheel cover delivered by the Chelsea Truck Company. There is actually something more prominent that catches our attention and it is the stainless steel cross-hair exhaust system.

When we take a look at the sides of the car we see new alloys. Namely, they are 1983 RS Defend in satin black finish. Behind all four wheels we spot rubber flaps and liquid red-painted brake calipers.

Proceeding further, the boring interior of the Defender has been made very sunny and inviting. The front and rear sports GTB seats come in the exuberating orange color of the quilted and perforated leather contrasted by black accents and stitching. What we also see inside are the one-off black Churchill time clock, billet machined leather steering wheel and aluminium ventilated foot pedals.

The centre dashboard surround is now in Piano Black, while the centre glove box was wrapped in quilted and perforated leather and the roof headlining in Alcantara. Unfortunately, only those inside will enjoy this lavishness of material, because everything is hidden behind a dark-tinted privacy glass.

Source: A. Kahn Design

April 14, 2015

Shelby Shows-Off with Baja 700 Edition Based on the Raptor

Baja 700 is the latest Shelby American project which is based on the Raptor SVT. More importantly, it can produce over 700 horsepower and this makes it the most powerful truck in company’s history. The model is a special edition, meaning that it will be produced in only 50 units. Each of them will feature a complete package, comprising of competition suspension, off-road cooling and tires.

The 700 horses come from the 2.9 liter Whipple supercharger added to the 6.2L V8 engine. It is also coupled with bigger throttle bodies and injectors. There is also new heat exchanger and a Borla exhaust system that take care for the output.

Furthermore, its off-road performance suspension not only makes it stand out truly, but also makes it possible for the driver to go anywhere. For the last purpose are also helping the BFGoodrich K02 All-Terrain tires that can literally handle any surface.

There is a bunch of special edition tweaks all over the vehicle like the “Baja” graphics, badging and the classic Shelby striping. Custom 18-inch alloys and Rogue Racing front and rear bumpers come as an option, therefore they will cost you some additional money to the starting price of the Baja 700.

The latter is $45,000 USD and note that this does not include the base Ford Raptor. Whether it is worth it, it is up to you to decide.

2015 Shelby Ford Raptor SVT Baja 700 Edition 01

Source: Shelby American

April 14, 2015

Isuzu D-Max Becomes a Flagship with a Special Edition

2015 Isuzu D-Maz Blade Side View Isuzu D-Max became the permanent flagship model in company’s pick-up range. To celebrate this, Isuzu has released a special edition version called Blade. It was inspired by a version released last year but includes even more styling features and numerous improvements. The 4×4 double cab will be offered in two paint schemes: Cosmic Black and Pearlescent White. You should also mind that the last one is an option and will cost you some additional money.

Long list of versatile enhancements, featuring styling and technology ones, is also attributed to the Blade. New here for instance are the “Shadow” grey front grille and garnish as well as the Cosmic Black door mirror caps, door handles and tailgate handles.

Soft-close tail-gate damper comes as a no-cost option just like the 18-inch “Shadow” alloys mated with 255/60 R18 Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires. There is also an Aeroklas leisure canopy or a Black Mountain Top roller cover with rear style bar. This time this choice won’t cost you a thing.

Stepping inside, one encounters heated leather seats and a ‘Shadow’ grey headlining. Other exclusive to the Blade model features include side-sill scuff plates, one-off carpet mats and Piano Black accents throughout the interior. For the great experience of the occupants will take care the Pioneer system with eight speakers and 6.1-inch touchscreen navigation system.

At last, we should mention that the vehicle is powered by the 2.5-litre twin-turbo diesel, which is connected to either six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The unit generates 163 hp (120 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The other strength of the D-Max Blade is its capability of 3.5-tonnes towing capacity.

This special model is currently on sale. There are no details on whether it will have a limited production, but we urge you to hurry up if you like it.

Source: Isuzu

April 14, 2015

Forza Horizon 2 now with Furious 7 Car Pack [VIDEO]

Forza Horizon 2: Furious 7 Car Pack Remember when we told you the story behind the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T from Furious 7? Well, the great news for today is that you are actually given the chance to drive it. At least virtually, since the car has made its debut in Forza Horizon 2, the strenuous Xbox One game. The other good news is that it is actually part of Furious 7 Car Pack, which features lineup of eight fantastic vehicles, appearing in the latest series.

All of the cars have been authentically recreated, and in fact they also include details never seen before in a Forza game. Take for instance the awesome functioning blower in the Charger R/T. There is also a month’s free car, which in this case is the 1998 Toyota Supra.

So, let’s start with the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T Fast & Furious Edition. It is said that this car offers the best way to live your life a quarter-mile at a time. It is driven by a 426 Hemi engine, pumping out 425 horses (313 kW). It also comes equipped with coil-over race suspension, 18-inch wheels coupled with wide tires and huge disc brakes. There is also a fully functioning supercharger and street blower scoop making a hole in the hood. The result is more than impressive and it is 900 hp (662 kW).

Next is the 1970 Plymouth Cuda with 600 horsepower, coming from the same as Charger’s engine. It is characterized by bold colors, muscular fenders and a lot of Mopar features.

2013 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is also featured in the car pack. The very cool thing about it is that it is bulletproof and extremely modified throughout. Surprisingly, its power comes from a turbo-diesel motor.

If you want to see something more luxurious in the pack, you have it! Greet the 2014 Maserati Ghibli S Fast & Furious Edition, which in the movie is driven by the Jason Statham’s character. Under its hood, one finds the twin-turbo V6 pumping out more than 400 horsepower (294 kW).

Number five is a position reserved for the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner. Interesting fact about this car is that it was the choice of bootleggers and street racers back in the 70s, because it was faster than most police cars. Perfect ride, isn’t it?

We can’t skip the latest 2015 Dodge Charger R/T, which is also featured in both the movie and the game. This American muscle car was driven by Dom, features Mopar tweaks and packs 370 horses (272 kW).

Another Dodge, this time the Challenger, will also help you battle your competitors in the game. Its bulging fenders, long hood, and short deck are something that stays lasting in our mind. We also saw a captivating ad campaign, featuring this model.

At last, the month’s free car is 1998 Toyota Supra, which back in the days was the king of Japanese sports cars. This particular model is powered by the famous 2JZ engine. The unit is highly tunable and is preferred among tuning enthusiasts.

The pack is already available and can be purchased for only $5 USD. And I have already done this good thing. Can you guess what I’m going to do next?

httpv://youtu.be/mpIPO1UhAJs

Video Source: YouTube

Source: ForzaMotorSport

April 9, 2015

Honda’s “Never-Ending” CR-V YouTube Campaign is Simply Mesmerizing! [VIDEO]

Honda "The Endless Road’" Campaign Is there a better way to promote the newCR-V other than with an endless film? Obviously there isn’t, since Honda has just done this, which makes it the first company to create a ‘never-ending’ YouTube Film. This is part of an integrated campaign, called ‘The Endless Road’, which comes to advertise the latest CR-V. The campaign also aims at showing all new benefits of the model, starting with the expanded engine range and continuing to the improved equipment.

The endless video displays a vicious cycle, showing how Honda CR-V drives up a hill, chasing a spiraling road. And this never stops, literally. What is more fascinating however is that everything is personalized and happens in real time.

Another interesting fact that the company has revealed that since launch, this film will be always running, visually reflecting the time of day and weather of the particular location of the viewer. One can even click on other locations to see how it would change. And it does, but I won’t tell you more. Just try it.

The secret behind this commercial is that it uses a hypnotic visual illusion with the aim of demonstrating Honda’s constant pursuit for superiority. The video was filmed with the help of a one tenth scale model and a custom motion control rig. The latter was used to capture this mesmerizing illusion. Everything was shot by Nick Meek and led by “mcgarrybowen London creative agency.

You can view the film at HondaVideo YouTube channel, and also below, but you won’t get the same impression as at the interactive site. However, we also have added a ‘making-of’ video below, so you can fully enjoy the process.

httpv://youtu.be/5u95Zc7AbDM

httpv://youtu.be/pU7za8viorE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

April 9, 2015

Say Goodbye to Honda Crosstour. It is Never Coming Back.

If you drive a Honda Crosstour, then you are a lucky one, because Honda has decided to cease the production of the 2016 model year version. The car was originally introduced in 2010, and intended to bring about a combination of a crossover, sedan and a wagon. The last edition of the model was equipped wit the powerful but fuel-efficient Earth Dreams V-6 engine, which was rated at 278 horsepower (204 kW) and 341 Nm (252 lb-ft) of torque, and was linked to an AWD.

The other unit in the powertrain range was the 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC, generating 192 horsepower (141 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. It was connected to a five-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control.

Although, Crosstour’s exterior stance exuded sleek and sporty proportions, the car was said to be one of the ugliest on the market. Well, opinions may vary, since I find it really attractive. Unfortunately, Honda is a brand that follows strongly customers’ opinion and the result is at hand.

In addition, the Japanese company has a growth strategy in North America that includes strengthening of its light truck line-up. This is visible through the recent introduction of the CR-V, the stunningly beautiful HR-V, the Pilot, and the next gen Ridgeline truck. Moreover, Honda is also planning to fortify its leading lineup of passenger cars, starting with the new Civic.

The company also says that Crosstour has played a significant role, in targeting crossover customers. However, it is obvious that with the introduction of the new HR-V, Honda is actually creating new perception for the crossovers in the segment, thus aiming to attract new buyers.

This is definitely sad news for all Honda fans, but it will probably open many new unexplored horizons.

Source: Honda

April 9, 2015

Nissan Releases Hybrid Version of the X-Trail. Sadly, only in Japan.

Nissan’s X-Trail model is more famous in the United States under the name Rogue. Well, regardless the name, the model just got its hybrid version, which will be firstly distributed in Japan. The vehicle will go on sale on 13^th of May in the country, but there are no details, whether this will happen in other places in a later time.

Equipped with a four-wheel drive and the 2.0-liter MR20DD hybrid engine, this vehicle is capable of delivering great performance and efficient driving. In addition, the eco-friendly X-Trail will have Forward Emergency Braking, thus expanding its standard equipment.

Intelligent Dual Clutch Control is the next feature that needs to be mentioned. One of the two clutches separates the motor from the engine completely. This helps the car drive in EV mode during high-speed situations and at the same time to realize efficient regeneration.

Speaking of efficiency, the model has been rated with fuel economy of 20.6km/l. Helping the powertrain in this good result is the XTRONIC transmission, which not only contributes to this great fuel efficiency but also to a superior acceleration.

Next, the high-output lithium-ion battery is very compact and this allows the luggage capacity of the vehicle to exceed 400 liters. The good news continues, because the X-Trail Xtreamer-X and Black Xtreamer-X limited editions will also receive hybrid variants, adding to Nissan’s range of “PURE DRIVE” vehicles.

We really hope to see the hybrid version of the X-Trail coming to other countries.

Source: Nissan

April 9, 2015

Mercedes-Benz Expands C-Class Line-up

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Side View Five new entry-level models have been introduced to the C-Class family among which there are two four-wheel-drive variants. All new models will be offered in both Saloon and Estate trims. What’s new is the sporty interior trim that adds a sense of spaciousness as well as fuel-efficient powerplants. There is also a wide range of safety features next to innovative technologies, and a lot of new equipment options.

C 160 Saloon is C-Class’ entry-level model that is equipped with four-cylinder engine, developing 129 hp (95 kW) and a torque of up to 210 Nm (155 lb-ft). This particular model can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds for the Saloon version and 9.9 seconds for the Estate. This corresponds to great efficiency which is 5.2 and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres and 120 grams/125 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

The two four-wheel drive models are the C 200 4MATIC and C 220 d 4MATIC, while at the top-of-the-range position among the four-cylinder engines sits the C 300. It can produce 245 hp (180 kW), sending it from a standing start to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds (6.1 seconds for the Estate). The fuel consumption here is 6.3 litres per 100 km for the Saloon and 6.4 litres for the Estate.

V6 petrol engine is what we will see in the C 450 AMG 4MATIC. It has an output of 367 hp (270 kW) and a torque of up to 520 Nm (384 lb-ft), thus it can sprint to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (5.0 seconds for the Estate) and has a slightly bigger needs for fuel: the combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (7.7 litres for the Estate).

At last, we have in the renewed rage the Mercedes-AMG C 63 and C 63 S. These two just had their market debut and are powered by a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo unit, developing 476 hp (350 kW) and 510 hp (375 kW), respectively.

Left to be mention is the additional equipment. The future owners will get the chance of purchasing options like the head-up display, a touchpad and various assistance systems. Also present are some luxury treats like the heated steering wheel.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

April 9, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova