Lidia Todorova – Page 93 – Automobiles Review

This is the Next Generation Kia Optima

Next Generation Kia Optima Sketch We have exclusively received the first sketches previewing the future Optima and you should admit that this car is simply beautiful. Like its predecessor, the first generation Optima that has debuted at the New York auto show in 2010, this Kia will be revealed at the same event, so we do expect to see it revealed on 1^st of April.

This model has done so much for the brand. First, it is the reason why Kia Motors became so popular, and secondly it has been company’s best-selling vehicle in the United States for three years in a row.

The design sketches reveal passionate forms and somehow obsessive remake of the famous sedan. But, what we have forgotten so far is the Sportspace concept that we have seen in Geneva. It definitely links to these teasers, although they represent a more aggressive and sporty car. The question is whether the new Optima will be a production version of this concept.

Well, what is visible from these sketches is pretty much the same as the Sportspace with the exception of the wheel arches that are more pronounced and it looks like that the sides are more sculpted. At last, also known for sure is that the future midsize sedan will be based on Hyundai’s Sonata platform, so it is possible that it will be equipped with the same engine range, the 2.0-liter and 1.6-liter turbocharged units as well as the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated one.

Source: Kia

March 19, 2015

Watch How Morgan Builds the Balvenie [VIDEO]

2015 Morgan Balvenie Promotional Car Front and Side View The Scottish Balvenie distillery, producing first class single malt Scotch whisky, has collaborated with Morgan. And this joint venture does not involve any alcohol-making. Both companies say that their partnership is based on the same values they share, specifically when it comes to craftsmanship and doing things the way they should. Take for example Morgan’s latest car, the Aero 8, and then have a sip from the Balvenie Scotch.

To go straight to the point, Balvenie commissioned a Morgan four-seat roadster that is going to make tour around the UK and deliver whiskey to customers. The video below tells the story of how this car was built car and all the details involved, so I urge you to watch it.

As it is visible from the pictures, the special promotion car is dressed in white coat, includes grey leather upholstery for the interior and Balvenie name on its side. It has room for four and enough horses that can make the deliveries happen quickly.

Under the hood of this special roadster sits Ford’s 3.7-liter V6 unit, which is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine is capable of 280 horsepower (209 kW) and optimum torque of 380Nm (280 lb-ft). The maximum speed is measured at 140 mph (225 kph) and it can be achieved when the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in the spectacular 5.5 seconds. Now you see why there wouldn’t be an undelivered whiskey?

httpv://youtu.be/hRy6C8lprmE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Morgan

March 18, 2015

Porsche 911 Turbo S Gets MCCHIP-DKR Three-Stage Treatment

MCCHIP-DKR is releasing its first project for the year. Better later than never, isn’t it? In particular, it is a three-stage program developed for the Porsche 911 Turbo S. So, obviously, the tuner was not satisfied with the characteristics of this car, especially with those regarding performance and it made this extensive program to give the 911 more horses. On one hand this is a great idea, but on the other … well, there is nothing I can thing of, so it is definitely a great idea.

First, we must start with car’s standard output, which is 560 HP (412 kW) and 700 Nm (517 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The original maximum power stands at 318 km/h (197 mph). Next, we have to mention some additional upgrades before discussing the three stage program. This Porsche has new KW coilovers and a special wrapping delivered by Breitung-Design.

Basically the first stage began with a software optimization only. The result is 600 HP (441 kW), 820 Nm (605 lb-ft) of maximum torque and V-max of 321 kmph (199 mph). Next, the stage two wasn’t achieved by the same means only, but there is also an additional Capristo sports exhaust system. The effect is 20 HP over the Stage 1, same torque and a very minimal increase of the maximum speed with only 1 kmph.

The top optimization of the 911 Turbo S is based on the previous two but adds professionally upgraded turbo charger. The end effect does not need a comment since it is 660 HP (485 kW), 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) and 328 kmph (203 mph) of maximum speed.

Source: MCCHIP-DKR

March 18, 2015

Jaguar XF Embarks on Dramatic High-Wire Journey [VIDEO]

2016 Jaguar XF has just been announced via a video and two images, one of which reveals its luxury interior. The short film says that on 24^th of March something involving the car will be happening. Precisely, the new XF will make a not very typical journey across London and this is great news, because we will see it a week earlier ahead of its official debut in New York.

Ok, let me tell you a secret now, this extraordinary drive will be something really spectacular. The company has collaborated with the stuntman Jim Dowdall, who we have seen in the latest Bond and Indiana Jones movies. He will perform the high-wire water crossing in the 2016 XF, making him world’s first to do that.

Precisely, he will drive across two 34mm-diameter wires high above water. The purpose of this is to show the lightweight and agile characteristics of the new model. And if you want to follow the happening, but you are not London-based, then there is good news for you, since everything will be streamed online at Jaguar’s official web page.

Also revealed by Jaguar is that the XF will be based on the new advanced aluminum-intensive architecture. While we wait for the car to make a market debut this fall, we are still eager to see the promised outstanding qualities in terms of technology, luxury and comfort.

Of course, we do expect to see some more of this car after its premiere in New York on 1^st of April. This is when we will get all of the technical details as well as a bunch of pictures. Stay tuned, because everything begins next Tuesday.

httpv://youtu.be/FRSOoK_NVVo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

March 18, 2015

What’s new from Scion? Have a Glimpse at iM Hatchback and iA Sedan

2015 NYIAS Scion iA Teaser In New York Scion will show two new models from the “i” specification, the iM five-door hatchback and the iA sedan. And if you wonder about the letter “i” in these cars, well, just have some imagination. For example it can stand for individuality, intriguing, inetersting, intelligent and (easy on customers’) income.

In addition, the “A” in the sedan stands for the accommodating trunk and the aggressive styling that are imbued in the car, while the “M” is nothing else but modern style and multi-faceted utilization.

As mentioned already the hatchback has five doors and judging from what was revealed so far it will offer optimum versatility, sporty features and looks, and hence a driving experience that is fun and dedicated. Although young people are not that keen on sedans, Scion said that the iA is design to appeal exactly this group of people.

Therefore, we expect to see it with exciting styling and engaging driving dynamics. Actually, knowing that this is a Scion car, there is no doubt that it will cover these requirements. What we forgot to tell you is that this model will be also more practical, so its users can benefit from a lot of characteristics.

The new Scions will be introduced in New York on 31^st of March. The cars are an example of the evolution of the brand, so we are really excited and can’t wait to see what they really stand for.

Source: Scion

March 18, 2015

Dacia Lauréate Prime Special Editions are Here

Dacia is not an extremely popular brand but we must admit that it is trying to bring more and more attention to its products. After we have seen the anniversary vehicles last month (the reason for the release was the 10^th birthday of Logan), now it is time for another limited edition line-up, comprising only of three models: the Sandero, Logan MCV and Duster. The specification is called Lauréate Prime and stands at the top of the line-up.

The first special and immediately noticeable thing about those cars is the exclusive metallic blue color scheme, dubbed Cosmos Blue. It actually pays tribute to the traditional livery. The same color is to be found inside on the inserts of the front and rear seats, the details of the floor mats and the seat belts.

In contrast to this hue is the metal grey door mirror shells and the dark alloys. In addition, any Lauréate version is equipped with convenience features (from the Comfort Pack) like the front central armrest and the leather steering wheel, the electric rear windows and the MediaNav Evolution multimedia system.

Sandero and Logan MCV of this specification will be driven by either the 0.9-litre TCe 90 or the 1.5-litre dCi 90 engines. On the other hand, the Duster Lauréate Prime will get more powerful unit, namely the 1.5-litre dCi 110. It will be offered in two- or four-wheel-drive variant.

Yes, we know it is not a Ferrari or a fancy BMW, but still this Romanian car has the potential to become significant in the automotive industry. Why not?

Source: Dacia

March 18, 2015

SR Auto Surprises with Aero Package for Lamborghini Aventador

SR Auto Lamborghini Aventador Side View After the very good feedback from the joint project of Liberty Walk and SR Auto Group, the insane Ferrari 458 Spider, the Canadian specialists are now presenting their next intriguing machine. If you have followed their work, then you should know that they have this special relationship with Lamborghini cars. When it comes to tuning them, they simply do their best.

The matte black exterior you see is not a new thing, but it is factory made. However, everything that is shiny and glossy can be attributed to the work of SR Auto that has installed the PUR Aero carbon fiber kit.

Precisely, it adds front lip and side skirts made from the lightweight material as well as rear diffuser. The project does not end with the installation of the kit, but continues with the new race adjustment arms that help bring the Aventador closer to the ground.

Regarding the performance of this beautiful matte Lambo, we only know that it has been given a new valvetronic exhaust system delivered by Innotech Performance. Probably, there isn’t a huge change in the numbers, so this means that the V12 under the hood produces no less than 700 horsepower (522 kW) and 690 Nm (511 lb-ft) of torque.

At last, we can’t just skip the wheels that contrast so prominently. PUR LX04.V3 was the choice for this Lamborghini. The alloys are finished in gloss brilliant silver and feature polished step lip. They come in 21 inches at the front corners and 21 inches at the back. Of course, low profile tires are a must!

Source: SR Auto

March 17, 2015

Meet the Fastest Diesel on the Sachsenring!

2015 AC Schnitzer BMW Z4 Diesel Side View It is not a production model, but a tuning company product based on the BMW Z4. The modifier behind this project is AC Schnitzer that was capable of extracting the pure sports capabilities from the powerful diesel engine under the bonnet of the Z4. Since this is only a one-off example of the car, then it is probably better to name it a concept.

So, the most important thing about this tuning concept is the engine conversion. It is actually M5’s M50d unit under the hood of the car, which now produces 430 hp (316 kW) and 840 Nm (620 lb-ft) of maximum torque. This additional power should be attributed to the engine conversion and its weight reduction due to the utilization of lightweight elements.

On the other hand, taken from the M3 series are the new limited slip differential and the rear axle gear. Another replacement affects the transmission. AC Schnitzer team did not like the original manual gearbox, and therefore it has been substituted with an eight-speed automatic with pedal sports shift.

These changes help the BMW perform fantastic. It can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 300 km/h. As a matter of fact, according to Auto Bild sportscars this is the fastest diesel on the Sachsenring with a lap time of 1:37.22 minutes.

19 inch AC Schnitzer forged alloys Type VIII fitted with dramatically huge rubbers, is on what this car runs. In addition, on the front axle there is a new lightweight high performance braking system that helps during deceleration.

Left to mention about the external changes are the 30 mm body lowering and the aero package that comprises of front spoiler, sports fenders, bonnet vents, a two-piece rear spoiler and the carbon rear skirt insert all made of carbon fiber.

The interior of the car was also improved with the addition of orange highlights, carbon racing bucket seats, aluminium pedals and foot rests as well as velours floor mats. And although this concept is a pure one-off, it has a price which is around 113,965 euro.

Source: AC Schnitzer

March 17, 2015

Vorsteiner Releases GTS-V Package for BMW M6

Front View of Vorsteiner's BMW M6 GTS-V It is white, it is grandeur, it is based on the M6 series and it is pretty much the latest project presented by Vorsteiner. We were impressed by the visuals of the car as well as the modifications done on it. Although they are not as massive as Mansory’s Bentley GT Race car, they are that harmonious that it feels like the vehicle has always owned them.

We all know that the M6 series is currently offered in three variants: cabrio, coupe and Gran Coupe, and the good news is that the tuner’s package is available for all of them. Precisely, Vorsteiner designed a new front spoiler specifically for the M6. The benefit of this is that this new addition to the car creates downforce at high speeds.

Furthermore, the front spoiler mimics the edgy lines of the factory bumper and this is the reason why it seems like it has just got out fresh from the BMW factory. At the front we also see new front lip made of company’s speciality: the PrePreg carbon fiber. The same material has been used for the rear diffuser and the deck lid spoiler.

Also featured in this project are the GTS-V brake ducts that help force the air directly to the rotors. And that is all. Unfortunately, there isn’t any change in the 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine, so this means that it boasts 560 HP (412 kW) between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and 680 Nm (501 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 17, 2015

Mansory GT Race is a brilliant 1000 HP Bentley Continental

Mansory GT Race Front and Side View Today’s project made by Mansory involves a Continental GT and a bunch of genius improvements. The so called Mansory GT Race car has nothing or a little to do with its predecessor, due to the extensive changes that has been done to its bodywork, power unit and interior. Well, this might sound a little bit forced but we urge you to take a look at the pictures.

The new body package comprises of impressive elements like the ultra light hood made of exposed carbon fibre, the fantastic look of the daytime driving lights, or the improved aerodynamics and weight. It is no surprise that the car has less body mass, because literally every detail in it was made of carbon, beginning with the doors, going through the side mirrors and ending with the width increasing fenders.

Furthermore, more downforce on the rear axle is provided through the new side skirt, diffuser and GT3 wing profile. Of course, less weight also means better performance. As if this fact inspired the tuner to upgrade the heart of the car. Precisely, they have added new elements like the exhaust system, turbocharger, engine and transmission management and more.

Obviously 1000 is the favorite number of the company since this is the third model in their garage which is capable of producing around 1000 hp (736 kW). There is a raise in the torque to 1,200 Nm, too. The maximum speed is of 330 km/h and it is achieved while the car tries to accelerate in less than 3.9 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint.

New lightweight alloys and huge tires are also at hand, but what’s more impressive is the interior. It is equipped with a combination of upholstery from leather and Alcantara and greencoloured carbon fibre. Rounding out the project are the sports seats made of carbon, the newly designed airbag sports steering wheel and the pedals made of aluminium.

Source: Mansory

March 17, 2015

Nissan Celebrates GT-R with Gold Edition

The first GT-R introduced with gold exterior was this of Usain Bolt. It obviously became very trendy since the brand will even produce it. We are talking about the 2016 Nissan GT-R 45th Anniversary Gold Edition which comes to praise the heritage of this particular model. It is based on the Premium trim level and its gold characteristics do not end with the exterior paint. But before continuing with them, we must also say that this special color, called “Silica Brass” was used for the R34 Type or the Skyline GT-R M-Spec.

The designers added a special gold-tone VIN plate under the hood and in the vicinity of the engine, as well as a plaque on the center console in the interior. In addition, there is some really good news regarding the powertrain. It is now capable of additional 50 horsepower added to its already generous 550 hp.

This means that the VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 unit now produces a total of 600 hp (441 kW) thanks to additional fine tuning. There are also 24 Nm added to the torque, resulting in the spectacular 656 Nm (484 kW).

At last, we must also mention these premium wheels on which the car runs. Painted in nearly black as a contrast, they have 20-spoke design. The alloys are shod with Dunlop performance run-flat tires that measure 255/40ZRF20 up front and 285/35ZRF20 at the rear.

Only 30 examples of this special edition will be produced and they are all going to the United States.

Source: Nissan

March 17, 2015

Revology Cars Make the First Ever Ford Mustang Replica

Have you ever dreamt about driving the first generation Mustang, not in a restored form, but in a fresh form, just like it has arrived from the factory? Believe it or not, all things are possible since the Florida based car manufacturer, named Revology Cars, has produced the exact replica of the original 1964 Ford Mustang. The goal was to make a replica of the model, but with one simple difference – it should include all of the modern technologies that contemporary cars are infused with.

So, the result is at hand, since this Beauty has already debuted at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance this weekend. As a “postmodern interpretation” of the iconic muscle vehicle, this Mustang actually includes various updates that not only highlight the original design, but also improve some old-fashioned features.

For instance, the technicians have integrated here power windows which are activated via the original window crank handle. There is also an electronic instrument cluster (not typical for the first gen model, isn’t it?) and LEDs mounted in the five-dial bezel. The perfect place for the USB and AUX jacks has been found in the ashtray.

More prominent changes have been applied to the powertrain and suspension. The power here comes from the gasoline 5.0L V8 engine coupled with automatic or a manual transmission. The suspension improvements feature MacPherson strut and three-link design rear end for more balance and improved performance. Speaking about balance (and safety), we should also mention the four-wheel disc brakes.

The other equipment highlights at a glance are the remote keyless entry and power door locks. The occupants will also enjoy the power seats, tilt steering column, intermittent wipers, digital message center, remote trunk release and even the integrated Bluetooth. There is so much done inside.

Old school safety does not equal its modern interpretation, so Revology Cars has to infuse the car with many additional active and passive safety features like LEDs up front, the dual chamber master cylinder as well as the rack and pinion steering. They are accompanied by the side intrusion beams, collapsible steering column, three-point seat belts and a fuel pump inertia shut-off switch.

Besides all of the aforementioned details, we must highlights that this replica is built on a brand new steel body, delivered by Dynacorn. Last thing to mention is that if you want to acquire this beautiful muscle car, then you should prepare at least $119,500 US. Oh, and you can chose between a fastback and a cabrio.

Source: Revology Cars

March 16, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova