Lidia Todorova – Page 88 – Automobiles Review

Ford Confirms Global Debut of 2016 Taurus

2016 Ford Taurus is set for a reveal at the Auto Shanghai at a special pre-show event on 18th of April. The new flagship will be accompanied with six other new vehicles, which are having their debuts in Asia Pacific. Unfortunately, Ford didn’t say whether it will bring the 2016 Taurus in the U.S., but we sincerely hope it does.

The ongoing 2015 model is the sixth generation of the car and it is built on the Ford D3 architecture. The car is currently offered with three engines, which can drive the front or rear wheels. Namely, they are the 2.0L EcoBoost, 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 and a 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6.

Ford is obviously keeping everything in secret, since we don’t even have a teaser image to show (note that this one above is the sixth-gen). This means a lot to fantasize about the seventh generation car.

And in case we trust rumors, 2016 Taurus should be equipped with body panels made of aluminum and it would also have a new chassis. Sadly, the platform is expected to be the old one. Well, there might be some changes regarding the length and with of the car. Of course, there are no words on the engine line-up, but there is a slightly low chance of seeing something different.

At last, the visitors at Auto Shanghai will also see the Ford GT supercar, Focus RS and ST and other technology tweaks on display. An example for such is the Ford Innovation Lab

If you happen to be somewhere near Shanghai, then you should definitely go see the Taurus. The event starts on 22^nd of April and will last one week.

Source: Ford

April 6, 2015

What does G-Power Have in mind for this BMW M550d?

G-Power BMW M550d Side View Speaking about BMW is a tough task, since every car in the range has great characteristics. But when it comes to a G-Power modification on an M model, things get pretty serious. This is the case with this M550d, which has received a significant engine upgrade and some (minor) styling modifications. This BMW M550d is driven by a standard 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel unit. Via a three-stage, variable geometry turbocharging, the engine is capable of producing 381 hp (280 kW) and 740 Nm (347 lb-ft) of torque. Impressive, isn’t it?

But … what we have here is the exclusive upgrade that endows the car with even more horses. Thanks to an advanced D-Tronik 5 V1 control module, the M550d stuns us with 435 hp (320 kW) and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque.

Furthermore, G-Power has ensured to keep all standard diagnostics and engine protection functions intact. What does this mean? In particular, when the coolant water reaches the ideal temperature, the D-Tronik 5 V1 module engages, and then disengages when the limit of engine oil temperature is reached.

In addition to this, the module is also programmed to respond to driver’s right foot and only engages when full power is demanded. And this is when the tuned motor performs at its full potential. Covering the 0-100 km/h sprint, this BMW needs only 4.5 seconds. And believe it or not, its top speed exceeds 270km/h.

These additional horses are taken onto the road with the help of new in-house made double five-spoke Hurricane wheels that come in the size of 9.0×21 and 10.5×21-inches at the front and rear, respectively. They are coupled with Michelin rubbers of the dimensions of 255/30ZR21 and 295/25ZR 21.

What do you think of this cool project? In our opinion G-Power has done a pretty good job!

Source: G-Power

April 6, 2015

Wheelsandmore Give This Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Additional 115HP

Wheelsandmore just released their vision for the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S Coupe and it was captivating. Now it is time for another great project by the tuner, which also involves the Mercedes and AMG brands. This time, under the expertise of the specialists has been subjected the S63 AMG coupe. It has been given not only more attractive stance, but it also received a bunch of additional horsepower.

The version of the refiner of the in-house “Seven-11” is impressive. Precisely, the 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo received a substantial performance upgrade via software adjustment, which results in 700 hp (515 kW) (it has grown from 585 hp/430 kW), as well as 1100 Nm (812 lb-ft) of torque.

Contributing to these horses is also the modified stainless steel exhaust system. It now includes remote flap-controlled mufflers that are responsible for the astounding engine sound. In addition, there is also a CRP-F1 kit that ensures a better air to breathe in.

LowmaXX-module serves in terms of lowering, and this means that the new wheels of the AMG coupe are even closer to the road. Speaking of alloys, they are three-pieces forged matte-black 6Sporz and come in the size of 9,5×21 and 11,0×21 inches at the front and rear, respectively. The appropriate tires are a must, which measure 265/30/21 at the front and 295/30/21 at the rear.

Source: Wheelsandmore

April 6, 2015

GMG Racing Releases One-off Huracan [VIDEO]

GMG Racing is a South California based team which is experienced in the tuning of special European vehicles. Their last project features this awesome Lambo, which, as the tuner say, is a supercar that can be driven everyday. Although there aren’t big modifications here, but only subtle ones, we are sure that this car is worth reviewing, given that it really looks stunning.

First, the specialists began with Huracan’s exhaust. They have changed it with in-house made GMG Sport Exhaust, which actually boosts the power of the car with an additional 25 hp. What is more, it is made of lightweight materials, thus improving vehicle’s weight by 50 lbs. It has another benefit of improving the throttle response throughout the entire rev range.

Furthermore, GMG has muted the factory exhaust note to allow the GMG sport exhaust system deliver different sounds. There are actually three performance modes of the engine: Strada, Sport and Corsa.

Other cool features here are the ADV.1 wheels, measuring 20-inches at the front and 21-inches at the rear, the Pirelli P-Zero tires, Vorsteiner’s rear wing and the Novitec lowering spring. Oh, and have you noticed the matte black wrap, which actually makes the car so cool?

You can enjoy this project in the gallery below and don’t miss the video, which will help you get even more impressed by this custom Huracan.

httpv://youtu.be/Vz5-NSO2mgE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: GMG

April 3, 2015

Project 400-LE Edition is Kahn’s Very Special Range Rover Sport

And here we are again reviewing a Range Rover Sport tweaked by the British specialists at Kahn. It has been dubbed 400-LE Edition and received a full treatment that adds further to its uncompromising stance. The tuning is actually typical for Khan, and this means that we should expect intricate detailing and sophisticated interior.

Starting with the exterior, this vehicle is painted with a mat grey color (and I am really fond of it) and received a floating roof in Piano Black. The latter color can be also seen on the bonnet vent and side vent surrounds.

The front has been modified and features new carbon fiber bumper, front grille with 3D mesh and floating insert. At the back, the new rear bumper complements the front and this means that it is also made of carbon. Moreover, the rear can also show-off with a custom stainless steel crosshair exhaust system which was given a carbon fibre exhaust diffuser.

This Range Rover is standing proudly on lightweight wheels that hide gold painted brake calipers. They are also matched with low profile tyres.

Inside, the occupants hide behind dark tinted privacy glass. But there is more to be hidden, because the entire interior has been made of quilted and perforated herringbone black leather. The dash was entirely reupholstered as were the centre glovebox, door tops, door armrests, steering wheel hub and instrument binnacle.

Rounding out the interior improvements are the machined aluminium foot pedals, stainless steel door entry sill plates and the boot lid interior trim in carbon fibre.

Oh, and those who want to see this project will have the opportunity to do that at the London Yacht, Jet and Prestige Car Show, which will take place from the 8th to the 10th of April.

Source: Kahn Design

April 3, 2015

Next Generation Mitsubishi Outlander Adopts Dynamic Shield Technology

Mitsubishi has revealed its new generation seven-passenger crossover in New York. This is a significant moment in company’s history because the vehicle comes to display the adoption of new design language. Different exterior, more engineering and design tweaks and greater driving experience define the car. Here we also see the application of the “Dynamic Shield” technology which has the capability to provide for both the occupants and the car.

To go into details, we must first say that the chassis of the model offers increased body and suspension rigidity. Other important features include Electric Power Steering and noise-isolating windshield. As a matter of fact, the whole car has been insulated so well that it is very hard to hear any outer noise.

Further great additions to the Outlander are the rear door glass, dynamic front suspension and rear differential dampers. The trim of the engine compartment has been also changed. Speaking of the powerplant, it will be mated to the new generation continuously-variable transmission as an option.

The CVT will give the experience of quicker acceleration, better performance, faster shifts and improved torque delivery.

Regarding the exterior, we have seen even from the teasers that the new Outlander stands out with a redesigned front fascia. It includes new front fenders, halogen headlights and LED position lights. At the sides, the car has lower door sections and power-folding side mirrors, but before them we see the huge 18-inch alloys. The back also received LED taillights and changed fascia. A lot of other cool stuff is also integrated in this Mitsubishi like the windshield wiper de-icer and LED headlights that are standard on the GT trim.

Inside, the crossover has been also changed and this is visible through the remodeled steering wheel, leather wrapped seats and the accents all over the place. The occupants will enjoy display audio system, while the driver will see everything more clearly through the auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink.

Speaking of safety, the 2016 Outlander features everything one needs: Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and more. There are no words on production start or on price, so we hope to get this information soon. What we want to ask you is whether you find this Mitsubishi appealing or not?

Source: Mitsubishi

April 3, 2015

Is Nissan Maxima Going to Give you the Maximum?

2016 Nissan Maxima Side View After a strong advertisement campaign, the new Maxima was finally revealed in New York. The car is totally redesigned and in my opinion is stunning. And yes, I do definitely expect the best from this four door sports car. Let’s see why. Dramatic styling is the other name of Maxima since there is literally nothing else like this in the present automotive scene. As a matter of fact, the exterior of this car as well as its driving characteristics has been created by enthusiasts with the aim to deliver uniqueness in the segment of large sedans.

The first reason for this is the application of Nissan‘s new design language. In particular, it comprises of a V-Motion front end, boomerang lights, very tiny C-pillars and this feeling of a “floating roof”. Stepping inside, one looses their selves in luxury. Here we have bespoke interior with an emphasis on driver’s cockpit.

Under the hood of this sports sedan is positioned the 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 engine. You won’t find it in any other car, since it has been also modified and includes more than 60% new parts. Xtronic transmission with wider ratio has been linked to the engine.

The output is rated at 300 horsepower (220 kW), but this does not sacrifice on fuel economy, which by the way is expected to be improved by 15%, meaning EPA estimated 30 miles per gallon. Superb, isn’t it?

Next, there are a lot of new technology standards set with this new Nissan. The Maxima is filled with goodies like the NissanConnectSM with navigation and 8.0-inch touch-screen display, as well as SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Travel Link. In addition, the instrument cluster gets a 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display (ADAD).

Safety and security is ensured via the Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Forward Emergency Braking (FEB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) and Blind Spot Warning (BSW) features. For an additional protection, the Japanese company offers also the Driver Attention Alert (DAA) system.

2016 Maxima will be offered in five trim levels. The starting price begins at $32,410 USD. What more could we want?

Source: Nissan

April 3, 2015

Infiniti QX50 and QX30 Concept Make North American Premiere [VIDEO]

Infiniti QX50 Front and Side View It was announced last week that Infiniti will debut at the automobiles event in New York the redesigned QX50. Next to it, the visitors of the show will see the QX30 Concept. We’ve seen the last one debuting at the Geneva Motor Show in March, so we will focus on the QX50 crossover. The first thing to mention about it is the wheelbase. It was extended and this results in increased proportions of the exterior dimensions and interior spaciousness. In fact, room in the cabin has grown with eight cubic feet.

In addition, the exterior also received new appearance. Infiniti obviously decided to bring forward its new design language (we’ve seen it already applied on the Q50 and Q70) thus giving the crossover new LEDs in the form of daytime running and fog lights.

The side sills have new design as well. This where we also see the LED side mirror turn signals and the new 19-inch alloys. The rear fascia was also changed.

Powering this beautiful vehicle is the standard 3.7-liter V6 engine which produces 325 horsepower (239 kW). It is coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission that can drive either the front or all wheels.

The luxurious interior is wrapped in Ivory leather and it will definitely take care for occupants’ optimal comfort. As mentioned the cabin delivers more room now and this is due to the longer wheelbase. To be more precise, it was extended by 3.2 inches. The most of the gain is the additional 4.3 inches of legroom for the rear passengers. Next to the increased interior volume, the QX50 can now proudly stand out with 2.7 cubic feet of added cargo space.

2016 Infiniti QX50 is scheduled to go on sale this fall, while the QX30 Concept will enter production later this year and will have a market launch in 2016.

httpv://youtu.be/m2P-jlovH6I

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Infiniti

April 2, 2015

Kia Debuts Novo Concept Displaying new Design Direction

Kia Novo Concept Front and Side View If you think that this Kia was unveiled at the show in New York, you would be wrong. The car is actually making a premiere at the Seoul Motor Show, displaying its coupe proportions and minimalist interior. I actually wish that it was on display in NY instead of the Optima, which has nothing surprisingly new in it. By the way, do expect a review on the Optima in the upcoming hours.

The concept carries the name “Novo”, inspired by the Latin word “novatus”, literally meaning “innovation”. This signifies that the car comes to show us something fresh and new. Let’s see about that.

As we can tell from the pictures, the exterior design is typical for Kia. The car is built on company’s C-segment global platform that was specifically adapted for this. The sporty stance pf the car is strengthened via the low front overhangs, the longer rear overhangs and fastback roofline.

Kia’s trade mark, the “tiger nose”, was made wider and more deeply embedded. On its both sides we see slim laser headlamps. Large front wheel arches, consistent shoulder, low triangular exhausts at the back and crisp lines at the rear are features that characterize this car.

Inside, the concept is spacious and focuses on the driver via the long and wide dashboard. A very cool feature is the instrument binnacle that displays important information via a three-dimensional hologram display. There is also a touch pad with fingerprint scanner as well as a wide touchscreen in the centre of the dash.

At last, let’s talks about the engine. It is the 1.6-litre T-GDI unit and it is linked to the new seven-speed DCT that transmits the power to the front wheels. What we have as an effect? Great sports performance combined with stunning fuel economy. Or at least Kia says so, since there are no production plans for the Novo Concept. However, this car is definitely an example of the future development directions of the company.

Source: Kia

April 2, 2015

Tenth-Gen Civic Previewed via Concept Version at NYIAS

Honda Civic Concept is so hot that it could only be revealed at the New York Auto Show. The company is actually preparing to launch the redesigned versions of the Civic range this fall. The tenth-generation cars will keep the great performance characteristics and fantastic design. In the lineup, Honda will feature a sedan, coupe and Si model. Oh, and of course, my two favourites: the hatchback and Type R.

The cars will be built on a longer wheelbase. As we can see from the pictures of the concept it is obvious that it stands also lower to the ground and has this wider stance. Precisely, the hood is longer, while the front overhang and rear deck are shorter.

The aggressive look of the car is further strengthened by the prominent fender arches and the new wheel-to-body relationship. At the front we see new LEDs on the both sides of the “Flying H” grille. The latter is supported by deeply sculpted lower air intakes.

The next big thing about the new Civic is that it will be powered by the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine from the Earth Dreams Technology series. The unit includes direct injection and is linked to either a six-speed manual transmission or an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). In this way more efficiency is guaranteed, right?

In terms of safety, the Civic concept and all its future siblings will be equipped with Honda Sensing suite. It is filled with advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies like the Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control and Honda LaneWatch.

All in all, this concept tells me that the new Civic range will have even more to expect, and I am pretty excited about it. How about you?

Source: Honda

April 2, 2015

Subaru Unveils Unexpectedly STI Performance Concept

Subaru STI Peroformance Concept From the Back To be honest, Subaru’s STI Peroformance Concept is what I didn’t expect to see at the New York Auto Show. Next to the WRX STI Rallycross Car, this vehicle is a main star at company’s stand. The concept is a preview of STI’s (meaning Subaru Tecnica International) car performance characteristics. This also signifies for a bunch of tweaks hidden in this car.

For instance, Subaru said that it has changed the body, chassis and air intake and exhaust systems. Even the BRZ Super GT based engine was improved. In other words the STI Performance Concept is a pure example of the engineering prowess and tuning magic of the STI team.

Another thing that this car comes to tell us is that it is the first step of company’s plans to expand STI in America. As a matter of fact, STI-engineered parts have already replaced Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) aftermarket parts in the U.S. There is also the promise to see other STI tuned vehicles in the U.S.

United States will obviously do what’s trendy in Japan, since the complete cars with the extensive tuning and performance parts are now on sale in Japan. Precisely, the modified models are the WRX STI, Forester and BRZ. To make this even more visible, Subaru has added “S model” nomenclature for the WRX STI and “tS” on BRZ and Forester.

Unfortunately, there are no additional details released, so everything is up to our imagination.

Source: Subaru

April 2, 2015

MINI Shines Bright with All-Chrome Exterior

Mini Chrome Line Exterior Deluxe Concept It’s small, sporty, with British attitude and has stunning appearance. It couldn’t be else but a MINI, right? Well, this deluxe edition is very special, since it is all-chrome. Although some might find it not that cool, it seems to me that this is a strike at the perfect score. The appearance of this car is irresistible and it is an immediate eye-catcher. This is because chrome was not only applied to the headlamps or rear light, and even the radiator grille surrounds, but also it has been used to cover the entire body.

The three-door car has unique visual stance and there is no second though on that. But how about the interior? It offers a go-kart feeling via the position of the central instrument in the cockpit. There are also several design features which are typical for the MINI. But there will be also the option of adding chrome elements throughout the cockpit as well. Nice, isn’t it?

However, there is this logical question about the working process. Since the reflection characteristics of the chrome material are very high, then it is obvious that the manufacturing process should be changed as well.

This MINI will be built in company’s plant in Oxford, UK, where everything will be taken under control. For instance, the hall lights will be automatically dimmed for the perfect and effortless assembly of the car. Even the conveyor belt’s speed will be slowed so that workers can check their clothing and hair. I would actually like to see this on a video. Or maybe for real. Why not? Or wait a minute, is all this an April’s fool joke?

Source: MINI

April 1, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova