Lidia Todorova – Page 94 – Automobiles Review

BMW Introduces its First Production PHEV

BMW X5 xDrive40e is here and it is pretty impressive, since it is actually the first production plug-in hybrid that the famous company releases. Although we have seen its concept form, it is still a surprise that this car, being the first hybrid, is actually a Sports Activity Vehicle with all the benefits of permanent all-wheel drive and EfficientDynamics eDrive technology. Another interesting fact about this special vehicle is that it is infused with technologies directly taken from the popular BMW i cars.

Next to these qualities the vehicle can also show-off with a huge output and fuel efficiency. Of course, the low CO2 emissions are also an advantage. To go directly into details, the total output of this hybrid is 313 hp (230 kW) and it is produced by an electric motor combined with four-cylinder petrol engine. The result is envious and it is a combined fuel consumption of around 3.3 litres and15.4 kWh per 100 kilometres, and 78 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

As usual as in all hybrids, there is also a lithium-ion battery which supplies energy for the electric motor, which is then integrated in the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The battery is recharged when needed via any domestic power socket, public charging stations or a BMW i Wallbox.

We did not mention anything about the torque and the number is pretty impressive, since it is 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Combined with the horsepower this allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds. On the other hand, zero emissions and a run on pure electric mode cover the range of up to 31 kilometers.

Various technology features have been included in the X5 xDrive40e like the ConnectedDrive and the 360° ELECTRIC services. Navigation system Professional is added as a no-cost option and the same is valid for the remote app that helps in the check of the battery.

Of course, there are a lot of equipment options that could be mentioned here, like the extended navigation or the Adaptive Suspension Package Comfort and Dynamic Damper Control, or even the special M package. However, the most important news is that the first BMW hybrid is a SAV. It was a big surprise, wasn’t it?

BMW X5 xDrive40e details:

Model	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO2 Emissions g/km
X5 xDrive40e	Petrol: 245hpElectric: 113hp	Petrol: 350 @Electric: 250	6.8	130mph (limited)	85.6	77
	Total system output: 313hp	Total system output: 450Nm			Figure range due to varying tyre format

Source: BMW

March 16, 2015

Henrik Fisker Shows-Off with Vanquish Based Thunderbolt Concept

Another exquisite car from Fisker was shown at the Concours d’Elegance this weekend. This time it isn’t a muscle car, but a very stylish V12 Vanquish which has taken the form of a Thunderbolt. Or at least its name. Being a GT coupe concept, the vehicle features timeless design and it is actually a representation of Henrik Fisker’s personal preferences about the Vanquish.

The body of the car shows design cues typical for Fisker, like the deeply sculpted air ducting, but what’s hidden here is that the bodywork was made of carbon. A large power dome is what has a strong presence on the hood as well as the one-off new head lamps.

At the rear the car features unique tail lights with blade-like form. It is also impossible not to see the innovative wraparound rear window and panoramic dark tinted glass roof. Moreover, other details around the exterior include aluminum grille and assorted bright work as well as 15 mm lowering of the ride height and 21-inch alloys.

Substantial changes have been made to the interior, too. In fact, the Thunderbolt is a concept that features the first application of Panasonic’s 11.6-inch Curved Control Screen that reduces reflections and glare.

In addition, the Swiss watch maker Maurice Lacroix delivered a Skeleton chronograph integrated into the dash, while Natuzzi supplied the trimmed Italian leather for the upholstery. A very special feature, which will definitely grab your attention, is the unique champagne/wine bottle holder that you can see in the gallery below. It is first of its kind and I must admit that it is very charming and creative element of the interior.

The sad news is that the car has been developed only as a study. However, Fisker has promised that it will use the help of his friends at Galpin Auto Sports for a limited number of additional cars only if there is any initial response for this and on the condition that the car stays non-commercial and a true collectible.

Source: Fisker

March 16, 2015

Meet the First Production Rocket

GAS Fisker Ford Mustang Rocket Front Angle The Rocket is a project which you probably remember from the L.A. Auto Show, when it was unveiled only in a prototype form. It is based on the latest Mustang and designed by Henrik Fisker and Galpin Auto Sports. What’s new is that the first production carbon-fiber infused 725 HP super-Mustang made debut this weekend at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.

L.A. impressed us with the fact that the car was inspired by those very iconic pony cars of the 1960s and early 1970s, like the 1968 Shelby GT500. The next thing was the extensive use of carbon fiber including the body panels and some additional performance and visual upgrades.

Now, it was officially announced that the limited series will be offered in various exterior colors like the “Eminence Grise” which is actually a combination of back, Ingot silver and Magnetic (grey). The other colors in the range include Oxford White, Race Red, Deep Impact Blue and Competition Orange. Although these shades catch the eye immediately we must say that there are other exterior options that can’t be left unmentioned: exposed carbon fiber hood stripe, mirror covers and lower front fascia.

Inside, the car is as special as it should be, because it is equipped with the Rocket Interior Package. Outstanding about it are the seats wrapped in Italian leather. The same material is used for the upholstery of various other elements like the dash board and center console, and even A, B and C pillars.

In terms of performance we mentioned that the muscle car can produce 725 hp (533 kW), and this is due to the addition of the Mustang performance package. Brembo 6-piston front brake calipers with larger rotors take care for the stopping power, and they are hidden behind the ADV1 10-spoke 21-inch wheels. And you won’t definitely miss the presence of this Rocket if it’s near because Bassani ensured that there is a very loud cat-back exhaust system with quad tip, which produces rigorous sound.

The Rocket has price tag starting at $109,100 USD.

Source: www.galpinrocket.com via Facebook

March 16, 2015

Mansory with Another 1000 HP S-Class Project Called Diamond Edition

Do you remember Mansory’s 1000 hp S-Class sedan? If you do, then you will be happy to hear that the tuning brand has transformed another S-vehicle, this time a coupe. The car was on display in Geneva and gathered a lot of attention. There are reasons for this, not only due to the exuberant color, but also due to the masculine body extensions, the massive interior change and more importantly the 986 HP (725 kW) that the car can now produce. There is now no question why Mansory decided to call the vehicle Diamond Edition.

To go into details, the muscular and athletic stance of this Mercedes can be attributed to the remake that has happened to the front. This includes new LED daytime running lights and cooling air inlets as well as the lightweight hood with integrated NACA nozzles.

Next, we have to mention that both sides of the car have been widened by 50mm and this has happened with the help of the new front fender made of carbon fiber and the integrated spacers on rear ones. The sides also received modifications, but they are somewhat expectable: these are the side skirts and the carbon housing for the side mirrors.

Carbon has been featured at the back of the car, precisely in the roof spoiler, rear lip and rear bumper. Speaking of the rear we can’t skip the new sports exhaust which produces threatening sound.

This beautiful new machine couldn’t be complete without the revisions on the engine, could it? The tuner has revised the aggregate of the S 63 AMG and installed the M1000 performance Kit. The result is astounding, since the production 576 hp (430 kW) has been boosted to 985 hp (735 kW). In addition, the maximum torque has been raised up to 1,400 Nm at 1,500 – 3,500 rpm.

And if you ask about the 0-100 km/h acceleration time, we won’t hide that it is 3.2 seconds! The maximum speed is limited at 300 km/h. The nearly 1000 hp are transmitted onto the road via better 22-inches multispoke alloys that were fitted with ULTRAC SESSANTA tyres.

At last, the interior comfort has been improved due to its total transformation. Take for instance the new white-and-blue leather wrapping or the aluminium pedals, or the redesigned steering wheel. There are also more beautiful foot mats and illuminated door sill trims. Well done Mansory, well done!

Source: Mansory

March 16, 2015

Project Kahn is More Confident with its Range Rover RS-650 Edition

This Range Rover is not only exceptionally beautiful, but it is also a pure expression of Project Kahn’s signature style. It was shown at the Geneva Motor Show next to the amazing Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept. So if you were lucky enough to visit the show, then you have probably seen it. The complete body color change as well as some other additional tweaks is what makes the car so impressive.

Next to the new Volcanic Rock Satin exterior paint scheme, the tuners have added to this Range Rover contrasting floating roof. Further highlights here include the new piano black side vents, tailgate strip and chin spoiler.

But if you take a careful look at the front and rear of the car, then you’ll definitely see that the bumpers there have been entirely redesigned. Precisely, they are made of lightweight carbon composite. All of this is mixed with exposed carbon fibre detailing and complemented by widened wheel arches with integrated air dams.

New for the bumpers are also the 3D mesh inserts on all intakes, in contrast to the front fog lights which stay the same as the original vehicle. The front grille also received some enhancements in terms of new floating insert.

At the back, the vehicle can proudly show-off with extended roof wing and boot lid spoiler, both made of lightweight carbon, as well as new stainless steel quad crosshair exhaust system. RS-650 Edition rides on huge lightweight wheels that are accentuated via gold painted brake callipers.

Moving inside, this SUV is all wrapped in perforated black leather. To deliver some contrasts, the designers added a gold contrast stitching. In addition, changes have been made to the door tops and armrests, the fascia of the centre console, the instrument binnacle and steering wheel hub. At last, stainless steel has been chosen for the door sill plates, while machined aluminium – for the foot pedal set.

Rover RS-650 Edition 02

Source: Project Kahn

March 13, 2015

Concours d’Elegance Meets Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SV

Lamborghini is a brand which deserves all the attention it receives; there is no second thought on that, right? Since, we’ve showed you yesterday the graceful birth of the LP740 it is now time for more news around the Aventador. This time on spot is the LP750-4 SuperVeloce which has debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of this month.

The car is obviously ready to conquer North America, because the company announced that it will make its premiere there at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance this weekend. So, if you happen to be somewhere near, it will be a great experience if you visit it.

As we know, the new car is designed to be faster, lighter and more beautiful in terms of design. And so it is. In fact, Lamborghini says that this is the most “emotional” car that it has ever created. There are reasons for this of course, and the first one is the increased engine output.

As the name of the car suggests, the 6.5 liter V12 unit is now capable of the staggering 750 horsepower (552 kW) at 8.400rpm and maximum torque of 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm.

This in turn shortens the acceleration time for the 0-100km/h sprint to just 2.8 seconds. Up until now, only a Bugatti could show-off with this number.

The second reason is the reduced weight. The new Lambo is 110 pounds lighter than its bigger and heavier siblings. The cause of the weight savings is that the technicians and designers decided to remove non-essential items such as the infotainment system, carpets and the soundproofing and front axle lifting system. In addition, there is an extensive use of carbon fiber in the body elements and in the single-piece racing seats.

Just like in Europe, LP 750-4 SV will be exclusively launched in Rosso Bia paint color and will be complemented by a black Alcantara-infused interior. There are no details around the US pricing, but we know that the car is hitting the North American retailers this summer.

httpv://youtu.be/ql94IYUrwXY

Source: Lamborghini

March 13, 2015

Come See Mitsubishi Outlander Facelift in New York

New York Auto Show is starting on 2nd of April and this is where we will see the birth of Mitsubishi Outlander facelift. The new model is heavily influenced by the Outlander PHEV Concept-S which we have seen in Paris last year. Since there is literally no information about the vehicle we will have to trust the rumors and to hope that there’s nothing unchanged from the concept.

It appears that the front of the car will feature extensive use of “metallic” material such as the chrome. It has the typical for Mitsubishi nose, but a little bit different from the Parisian concept fog lights. We have also heard that the rear of the new model will be also fitted with chrome accents and will show-off with new and never-seen-before taillights.

We do expect to see it running on alloys with new design and to see more luxurious interior. Are these expectations going to happen, it is only a matter of month to understand.

There will be also a significant improvement in the hybrid system that the PHEV utilizes. The current version of the Outlander uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit, two electric motors and 12 kWh lithium-ion battery. It can only run on electricity up to 34 miles and we do expect to see some improvements regarding this matter. The maximum range is 547 miles and the car will be using only 1.6 liters per 100 km of fuel to cover them.

At the show it is likely to see the updated Outlander Sport, too, so it is a good idea to visit it if you can. At last, we do expect to see the vehicle having a full reveal one week prior the event.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 13, 2015

Ram Releases Two 1500 Sport Crew Cab 4×4 Trims

Two new Sport trim models are going to enhance the lineup of Ram’s 1500 4×4 Crew Cab vehicles, and these are the Ignition Orange Sport and the Black Sport. Both buzz models will have a limited production run of only 1000 units each, making them even more desirable. And it is really worth it, because these trims deliver more individuality than ever before.

Take for example the Orange Sport. It will ignite any customer with its special appearance in the exuberating limited edition bright orange paint color contrasted by black accents like the strips on the hood.

Although there are no pictures of the interior, Ram says that it includes body color stitching throughout the cabin as well as Sport embroidery and Ram’s head on the seat backs and the headrests, respectively. In addition, the seat inserts received colored accent sport mesh.

In total contrast, the Black Sport has received its name for a reason. Not only because of the body color, but also because it has taken some design cues from the Black Express package. This means that it is equipped with black 20 inch wheels and features a sport hood.

Inside, everything is wrapped in black leather and to accentuate this Ram designers added Light Black chrome highlights. Furthermore, both trucks will be equipped with the 8.4AN Uconnect system that offers navigation and rear view camera.

Another thing in common is the HEMI V-8 engine mated to the 8-speed TorqueFlite transmission and producing 395 horsepower (290 kW). Both new vehicles will also include 3.92 gear set, dual exhaust and a vented sport hood.

The production of these buzz models will begin in April. The initial price starts at $41,020 USD.

Source: Ram Truck Brand

March 13, 2015

Jeep to Introduce Seven Concepts at Easter Jeep Safari

The 49th Annual Easter Jeep Safari is going to start as usually in Moab, Utah, in the last Saturday of March and will continue till fifth of April. This is a grand event for Jeep and for this reason we expect to see there many new concept vehicles. So far so good, because this is exactly what will happen when the seven new concepts debut. Everything that we know so far is that they will be equipped with Jeep performance parts from Mopar.

Oh, and there are to new teasers showing just two of the concept debuting in Utah. These are the Jeep Chief and Jeep Wrangler Red Rock Responder and they pose some questions since there is literally no information disclosed.

As we look at the images, the first one, the Chief concept, appears to be somehow a vintage Wrangler with retro-styled taillights and appearance due to the side graphics (the teaser below). Will this be a new take on the popular Jeepster of the sixties and seventies?

On the other hand, the second one will undoubtedly feature truck bed and a decal. The question here is will it be a pickup concept?

And that’s it, there are no other words saying what to expect. So we will have to wait until next week for more data on the entire Easter Jeep Safari lineup. Hope to receive it prior 28th of March. Stay tuned!

Source: Jeep

March 13, 2015

Watch How Lamborghini LP740 is Born [VIDEO]

We usually do not comment on advertisements but when we do, this means that we were impressed by what we have seen. The case with the ad reviewed here is the same and I must admit that it is very rare for me to be left speechless after watching any kind of commercial. But it is exactly what the director Alessandro Pacciani commercial did to me.

In short, the video depicts the birth of Aventador LP740. And what happens in it is a vivid depiction that in the beginning were only ashes coming from an active volcano. Then the metal used for the construction of the LP740 was melted via lava coming out from the depths of Earth.

It seems that even the rubbers were made from lava. At last everything is slowly taking form and result in this speechless representation of the lively Lamborghini car. By the end of this short but very emotional film, we see the LP740 in its full form and function.

The viewer is left in the company of the impeccable presence of the Aventador, which accelerates effortlessly in some sort of tunnel. Speaking of acceleration this car is capable of a lot.

Precisely, this vehicle is unstoppable and can take your breath away with a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 3 seconds. All this coming from the Aventador’s 6.5 liter V12 engine that produces exactly 740 hp as the name of the supercar shows. But enough talk, it’s time for show:

Video Source: Vimeo

March 12, 2015

It’s Official: Range Rover Evoque Convertible Coming in 2016 [VIDEO]

It’s very exciting news today, since Land Rover has confirmed that it is going to introduce to the market a Range Rover Evoque Convertible. In fact, the vehicle has already been put under some serious testing at Crossrail, which is Europe’s largest construction project comprised of 26 miles of tunnels. In addition, the tests have been filmed and the result is a stunning film, which can be viewed below.

After we have seen the 2016 Evoque at the Geneva Motor Show, the company could not hide a little more from us that a cabrio version of the model is coming in 2016, too. And this is when both will go on sale. As you can see the open-top SUV has the new design cues that were incorporated in the new model year Evoque.

There are no details regarding any specification, but there probably won’t be any surprises. We expect the same gasoline engine, which produces 240 horsepower (176 kW) and accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 62mph (0-100km/h) in 7.6 seconds on the way to a top speed of 135mph (217km/h).

Bringing some attention to the video, it happens forty meters below the streets of London. This is where the first prototype was tested on the 26-mile network of Crossrail tunnels. The short film begins with the introduction of the convertible into the tunnel via a crane. Then it proceeds to the real testing where it meets a lot of various obstacles. And this is where the things get a little bit hotter. Check out and see for yourself.

Later this year, the company will release other details about the strongly demanded Evoque Convertible. What we are left until then is this beautiful video and the hope to get soon any news.

httpv://youtu.be/s_Dx2rR2iRc

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Land Rover

March 12, 2015

Dodge Challenger Hellcat Arrives in Europe

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat can be already acquired in Europe and responsible for this are the specialists at GeigerCars.de. The most powerful production muscle car with 707 hp, which will also make prominent appearance in ‘Furious 7’, is showed here with some stylish tweaks which need some attention and can be seen in the gallery below.

An interesting fact, that is not so popular, is that the Hellcat 6.2-litre V8 unit under the hood of this Dodge is actually based on the larger displacement 6.4-litre, 492 hp engine. The latter we have seen powering the Challenger SRT 392. The difference here is that the first one includes a twin-screw supercharger, while the second is naturally-aspirated.

There is therefore no question where these 707 hp (567 kW) come from. The torque that we haven’t mentioned is measured at 881 Nm (650 lb-ft). This results in a 3.7 seconds acceleration time for the 0-100 km/h sprint and a V-max of 320 km/h.

Because the engine is that powerful it requires a huge quantity of cooling air. This is why the Challenger received this new nose with big intakes behind which are positioned four large intercoolers.

The impressive exterior paint finish of this particular car is complemented by aggressive matt black graphics. All of this is then mimicked in the ‘Slingshot’ wheels. They are black, multispoked and include and outer green strip. The size of the alloys is 9.5 x 20-inches while this of the tyres – 275/40R20. Oh, and do you notice the 390 mm two-piece Brembo brakes behind the wheels?

GeigerCars.de will offer all interested a huge variety of paint and trim options, while inside the choice is between Nappa leather with Alcantara and Laguna premium leather treatment. And if you already wonder about the price, it is 86,000 Euros which equals around $90,620 US Dollars. Although this is pretty impressive amount of money, we must admit that there is no other car on the European market with these powerful capabilities.

Source: GeigerCars.de

March 12, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova