Lidia Todorova – Page 96 – Automobiles Review

Italdesign Giugiaro Envisions Near Future with GEA Concept

GEA Concept debuted last week in Geneva, previewing the future of luxury design. The car is a project of Italdesign Giugiaro and is a stunning piece of art. The most important thing is that the focus in it has been changed from the driver to the passengers occupying the rear seats. In short, the car offers three different configurations of the compartment at the rear, including business, wellness and dream.

In other words, this change is expressed via a technology called “Piloted Driving” that allows the car to drive autonomously. The conceptual center of gravity is changed from the driver’s seat to the passengers in the rear. When the car takes control over driving, it then allows the occupants to focus on other tasks.

Some of the other highlights included are the remotely operated 90° book-type doors and virtual red carpet. In addition, there is this cool function where the glass darkens at driver’s wish in order to match the car’s body color.

After one is welcomed by the “red carpet”, then he or she sees the 19-inch LED screens in the back and the 180-degree swivel front passenger seat. There are also 12-inch screen in the front displaying important vehicle data and two additional 3.5-inch displays where one can see what side cameras are shooting at the moment.

In this concept lights are used in a very interesting way. First, the LED light clusters and laser lights are a source of communication between the exterior and the interior. Depending on the selected driving mode, the lights instantly change. Another impressive and immediately seeable feature is the wheels which comprise of more than 60 spokes. In fact, they are huge, measuring 26-inches and made from aluminum.

But more import is the question where the power comes from? Interestingly enough, this innovative concept is driven by four electric motors. Considering the name (GEA stands for Earth) it was obvious that the car will be ecologically-minded. Each of the motors generates 190 horsepower (143 kW), meaning that the total output of the car is pretty impressive, 760 hp (570 kW). The top speed stands at 250 km/h (155 p/h).

Although GEA Concept seems really exciting and innovative, and also focuses on a lot of technology advancements, we doubt that it will see the lights of the automotive market. Maybe next year Italdesign Giugiaro will offer more production-viable version of this intelligent car.

Source: Italdesign Giugiaro

March 9, 2015

Impressive Mitsubishi XR-PHEV II Concept Goes in Production?

Mitsubishi XR-PHEV II Concept is a continuation of the previous concept model which debuted at LA Auto Show last year. This new vehicle was displayed in Geneva and in my opinion is nothing that much different from what we have seen. The crossover shows company’s visions for the future of urban mobility that employs lightweight technology and efficient engine.

The exterior of the XR-PHEV II is pretty impressive and as you can see, the silhouette of the car is dynamic but at the same time muscular. This is due to this character line which cuts into its sides and flows effortlessly into the rear.

Going up front, all we can see there is a big shield or the so called new grille. The same motif can be seen at the rear, where we also find a bold interpretation of tail lamps. And look at the back of the model, isn’t it quite futuristic?

Inside, the car is as modernistic as the exterior. Just take a look at the aluminum frame, which spreads out sideways from the central console that is in black-and-silver hues. All of the controls have been gathered in the center console and in the steering wheel to maximally aid the driver.

This concept is designed to be a PHEV front-engine/front-drive vehicle. Precisely, the hybrid system comprises of MIVEC engine and electric motor as well as a new power drive unit. Mitsubishi has found space for all three at the front. The result is impressive, since the crossover produces only 40 g/km of CO2 emissions.

As a matter of fact, the PHEV system works mainly in the all-electric mode. In it the engine operates like a generator and supplies more power. Of course, the system can automatically switch between the aforementioned, the series hybrid and the parallel hybrid modes, when this is needed.

Whether this will be e production model it is still a secret. However, we sincerely hope to see it in one form or another.

Source: Mitsubishi

March 9, 2015

Is this the Next-Gen Chevrolet Malibu?

Yes, it is! And this is the first official picture we have so far. Designed for the 2016 model year, the car is scheduled to make a global debut at the New York International Auto Show. Chevrolet did not say much, but what we got as information is sufficient to please our ears. The new Malibu is made to be more efficient than its predecessor due not only to better engine but also to the fact that it will be around 300 pounds lighter.

For this weight loss is responsible the implementation of the higher-strength steel structure. In turn, this will not only lead to better economy but also to improvements of handling.

In addition, this totally new architecture will be 4 inches longer than the outgoing model. Of course this also contributes to an increased cabin space and more importantly – to more leg room for the front and rear occupants.

Other enhancements will be included throughout the interior, so we do expect some luxury treatment like leather, nappa or Alcantara. The confirmed changes so far include connectivity and advanced safety features, which is said to be better than ever.

From what we can tell judging by the teaser, it seems that 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has sleeker profile and more aggressive front. The company said that this is because the front wheels have been moved forward as well as the front and rear overhangs have been minimized.

So are we to see more dynamic and refined model in New York is a matter of time to understand. No words on engine range too, we will definitely have to wait till the big reveal or few days prior to that if we’re lucky.

Source: Chevrolet

March 9, 2015

Chevrolet Shows Colorado Trail Boss Edition in Cleveland [VIDEO]

Geneva Motor Show has been taking a lot of attention lately and this must be the reason why we missed the Cleveland Auto Show. This is exactly where a new beautiful red Chevrolet has debuted. Its name is Colorado Z71 Trail Boss Edition and it is ready for extreme adventures. Compared to the standard Colorado, this one has more aggressive appearance and better off-road capabilities. There are several reasons for this.

First of all, the Trail Boss is fitted with the Z71 off-road truck suspension package. This means that it gets more rugged tires and some styling features. To be more precise, these include new projector beam headlamps and front fog lamps, as well as front recovery hooks and black rocker steps.

This Chevy will ride on standard 17-inch dark argent metallic alloys fitted with 265/65R17 Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Exterior-wise the vehicle is also equipped with GearOn moveable cargo tie-down rings, load bar and cargo divider. Rounding out its visuals are the black fender flares as well as the front and rear black bowtie logos of the company.

Apparently there is nothing new throughout the interior, because Chevrolet hasn’t commented on that.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss Edition will be offered in two configuration options. It can be an extended or a crew cab, with the additional choice of long or short cargo bed. The four-wheel drive (4WD) is an option. This edition will go on sale in the spring and will have a price tag of $28,505 USD with package price of $3,320 USD.

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Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

March 9, 2015

Volkswagen Surprises with Passat Limited Edition

The famous Passat is getting a better version. But no, there’s no new facelift or whatsoever, instead Volkswagen has released a premium Limited Edition of the model, which includes better engine and more equipment features. The new trim will also substitute the Wolfsburg and SE levels from this model year. In terms of visuals, this car does not differ much from its other siblings in the line-up. The only distinctive features are the 17-inch alloys, chrome window surrounds and the front foglights.

But, this has nothing to do with what VW has left inside. To start from the opening of the car, the new Limited Edition has the KESSY, meaning that the driver can access the vehicle keylessly only with a push-button start.

Then to aid his or her parking, the company has provided a rearview camera. For the optimum comfort there are V-tex leatherette seating surfaces and heatable front seats. In fact, the driver’s seat also includes a power lumbar. Continuing with the leather theme, the steering wheel is also wrapped in it.

The technology features which can not be seen in other trims for free are the touchscreen radio with SiriusXM and the eight-speaker sound system. More importantly, the car will be powered as a standard by the turbocharged 1.8-liter TSI engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen says that this unit is highly efficient and can achieve 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

In other words this is the perfect family car, because it is also famous for its large cabin space. It has the needed individuality and stands for luxurious experience. 2015 Volkswagen Passat Limited Edition is currently on sale and has a starting price of $23,995 USD.

Source: Volkswagen

March 9, 2015

Koenigsegg Releases Hybrid? Yes, Meet the new Regera [VIDEO]

Koenigsegg One:1 and Agera RS are the fastest cars on the planet. But what’s missing here is the brand new model called Regera, which was introduced in Geneva in the beginning of the week. The name stands for “to reign” in Swedish and it is very appropriate for this powerful and responsive car. But what is more interesting is the power that it uses, because it is a hybrid. Yes, a hybrid.

I definitely did not expect this, but there is probably nothing much to develop, since the previously mentioned models have already done so well. Lightweight and competitive, the Regera performs fantastic. Koenigsegg says that this is the fastest accelerating and most powerful production vehicle ever. Is this true we’ll see in the lines below.

In details, Internal Combustion Engine is what powers the model, namely the DOHC 5.0 liter V8 unit. There is also electric propulsion of the Direct Drive system at hand. This results in a combined power output of more than 1500 Hp (1103 kW) and 2000 Nm (1476 lb-ft) of torque.

But as the company says, the Regera does not have the disadvantages of a hybrid. The first reason for this is that it is lightweight in contrasts to the heavy hybrids with two independent propulsion systems. Secondly, the car is equipped with the new Koenigsegg Direct Drive Transmission (KDD) which substitutes the traditional transmission of the combustion engine and offers the option of pure EV mode.

The EV plug feature allows the Direct Drive Battery to be charged by the combustion engine or through the charging port. Koenigsegg also developed a plug-in solution called Battery Drain Mode (BDM).

We’ll focus on this, because it is really innovative. For instance, if the next charging point is in around 50 km range left, a preset geo location will trigger the BDM. This in turn will forecast the driving behaviour, thus ensuring that the battery is fully drained upon arrival.

In addition, this car has been fully robotized. Precisely, the Regera includes technology tweaks such as active front and rear wings, chassis control and lifting system. It is also the first car which operates all body closures absolutely automatically. In addition to this the wing mirrors are auto-folding while the doors open, which is a very cool feature.

The doors as you can see aren’t conventional and swing out and rotate 90 degrees to fully clear the door opening. They are called Dihedral Synchro Helix Doors. Another very interesting feature here is the world’s first fully foldable active rear wing, which you can see “appearing” in the video below.

The company has focused in this Koenigsegg on the luxury too. Take a look at exterior’s constellation daylight running lights or the soothing surfaces inside, the electrically adjustable memory foam seats or the ambient lighting.

We receive the information that Regera will be built in only 80 examples, making it a pure limited edition.

httpv://youtu.be/3eV3CXtChV8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Koenigsegg

March 6, 2015

Infiniti QX30 Concept Previews Future Production Model [VIDEO]

After intense teaser campaign Infiniti QX30 Concept has been finally revealed. Of course, this has happened at the Geneva Auto Show. The design of the vehicle is typical for Infiniti and at the same time envisions the future production entry of the brand in the compact segment. With its sleek lines and all-wheel drive, the car is perfect not only for the city but also for the outdoors.

When you look at the body, it appears wide and thick, thanks to some styling cues as well as to the 21-inch wheels fitted with large tyres. The wheel design is indeed unique due to the combination of the three-dimensional milled aluminium and matte rubber material.

The front bumper is in satin chrome and is complemented by the tough-looking kick plates under the doors and the sculpted rear skid plate. In addition, the roof racks extend toward the centre line. All this makes the concept look like a mini version of SUV, which it exactly is.

The interior of the concept features the same innovative approach applied on the outside. For instance, the bold and dark cabin includes U-shaped seat frame that has been “dressed” in a layer of premium Connolly saddle leather. To make it even more special, the leather is accentuated by blue stitching.

The technology features available inside include Infiniti InTouch that helps the driver stay connected to their favorite devices. Regarding the powertrains, the QX30 Concept is envisioned with a wide range of diesel and petrol engines.

At last, we must say that this is definitely going to be a production model and this was just a preview. Infiniti has already confirmed that this concept signals a future premium compact crossover with full range of powertrains to suit any need of the customer.

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httpv://youtu.be/3y7Os6EtWT0

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Infiniti

March 6, 2015

BMW Celebrates 50 Years of ALPINA with the Fastest B6 xDrive Gran Coupe

The entirely new BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe will be the main star at company’s stand at New York Auto Show that starts on 1^st of April. This model will mark the celebration of two events: the 40th anniversary of BMW of North America and the US motorsports victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring with the1975 BMW 3.0 CSL. But we aren’t finished with the anniversaries. It is actually 50 years since the introduction of the ALPINA brand, so this is also an occasion to make some noise about it.

Believe it or not, the new ALPINA car is the fastest BMW which is currently sold. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.6 seconds, while its optimum speed is electronically limited at 200 mph.

The four-door Gran Coupe is driven by the powerful 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 that is capable of generating 600 horsepower (441 kW) and 799 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. This is exactly 60 horsepower more than the previous model we have seen.

Same are the ALPINA-tuned 8-Speed Sport Automatic transmission and xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system as well as the ALPINA stainless steel exhaust system with elliptical twin tailpipes. Updates have been made to the front spoiler and apron that have now new shape. They ensure that maximum air enters the cooling system. New are also the hood and the LED Adaptive Headlights with High Beam Assistant.

The anniversary BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe will have a limited production but no numbers have been specified up to date. The car will be available at US dealerships in June and pricing will be announced close market launch.

Source: BMW

March 6, 2015

DMC Adds GT Package to McLaren MP4 12C Velocita SE

The tuners at DMC are famous for their luxury projects based on supersports cars. Their focus is mainly on Lambos, but from time to time they like to do some work on McLarens. And if you remember the MP4 12C “Velocita” Special Edition project, then now you should be excited since the specialists have developed an additional GT package for the automobile.

As DMC says, this car expresses tuning at its finest. The reason for this is the included materials like the lightweight carbon of the body kit, the titanium exhaust system and the Italian leather inside.

Starting with the front, the additional bumper has received a new “GT package” lip, and the grill has been changed for more fierce design. There have been also added aggressive F1 carnards and side skirts, which further enhance the appearance of the car.

At the back we see the most striking elements. First, the rear diffuser has received revised tunnel set-up, while the rear spoiler has been substituted with light weight one. Just take a look at the rear wing and then proceed to the roof where you’ll see the GT scoop. It has been put there not only for aesthetic purpose but also because it can direct the air flow to the rear wing, so basically these two work together.

ECU changes have been applied to the engine, too. It now produces 660 hp (485 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft), which is pretty impressive given the fact that the standard model could only do 592 hp (435 kW) and 599 Nm (442 lb-ft).

What’s left to review is the new interior of this McLaren and although we haven’t received any pictures of it we are pretty sure it is impressive. According to DMC all leather panels can be substituted with a red tone, depending on customer’s wish. The cabin can be further enhanced with various materials such as carbon or wood, leather or Alcantara. What’s your choice?

Source: DMC

March 6, 2015

Vorsteiner Widens BMW M4 and Calls it Yas Marina Blue GTRS4

We haven’t said anything about Vorsteiner for a while, because all we have received recently was beautiful BMWs with new alloys. This time the tuner has taken things a little bit further with the “widened” BMW F82 M4 GTRS4 Yas Marina Blue Project. As you can see from the pictures the accent is again on the wheels, since they come in the contrasting Sakhir Orange. But, what’s left unnoticed at first glance is the widebody program, called GTRS4.

In details, all conversion parts are made of full lightweight carbon composite. It is exciting that the specialists made the front fenders have a total span of 4 inches. At the rear, the quarter panels sit 7 inches wider in comparison to the standard car.

We can’t skip the new carbon front and rear bumpers as well as the side blades. Given that every new element is made of carbon fiber, we suspect that the car has less weight and drives faster. However, no details in this respect have been announced.

Using our imagination and knowing that the standard M4 is powered by the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder engine, we can say that this car will be capable of producing around (or more) 431horsepower (317 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft). Expectations for the 0-100 km/h sprint exceed the production 4.3 seconds.

Going back to the alloys, the car has been equipped with specially designed three-piece forged wheels that come in the size of 20×10.5 and 20×13.5 inches at the front and rear, respectively. They were shod with 275 and 345 width tires.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 6, 2015

Lamborghini Aventador LP750-4 Superveloce: Lighter and More Powerful [VIDEO]

Yes, it is an Aventador, it is a SuperVeloce and it is a pure Lambo. Our expectations proved right since this is the model we predicted that it’s going to debut in Geneva. Lamborghini says that the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce is an expression of the purest essence of company’s super sports car. And this is why: first of all the vehicle is powered by the enhanced 6.5 liter V12 unit, which is capable of producing 750 horsepower (552 kW) at 8.400rpm. And since the car has reduced by 50 kg weight compared to its siblings, this means a power-to-weight-ratio of 2,03 kg/hp.

But the most impressive thing about these “simple” numbers (Bugatti beware) is that the Superveloce accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.8 seconds! The top speed is more than 350 km/h (more than 217 mph). Variable Valve Timing and Variable Intake System have been improved in order to deliver better torque. Hence, the result is a maximum torque of 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) at 5,500 rpm.

Inside, the car has received some updates too. The focus here is again on weight reduction, which is visible via the new sports bucket seats and the door panels made of carbon. Due to weight saving issues this model excludes an infotainment system, carpets and some other parts. How about the instrument cluster? As you can see it is entirely new and features TFT screen with RPM shifting- and a G-force indicator.

New is also the Lamborghini‘s pushrod suspension system that was introduced to this model and the electromechanical Dynamic Steering (LDS), as well as the lightweight forged rims in matt black. They come in the size of 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear and are fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 will be exclusively launched in Rosso Bia exterior color complemented by a black Alcantara-infused interior. The company will offer five other colors which are further to be announced.

There are far too many details since almost everything in this car was optimized. However, what is really captivating is that the company has created its fastest and most reactive car. And for those interested in buying one, well you have to spare around 327,190 Euros on the standard model. At last, we must mention that the car will have a market debut this spring.

httpv://youtu.be/z8MGbheEe9c

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lamborghini

March 5, 2015

Mystery Solved: Porsche Revealed the 911 GT3 RS in Geneva [VIDEO]

Remember when we told you about a mysterious Porsche model which is going to debut in Geneva? Well, the mystery is solved, since we have already at hand the911 GT3 RS car. The company itself announced this car as the “definitive track car for everyday use” and forgot to mention that you should be a millionaire or very wealthy to afford this. The price exceeds 200K of US dollars.

Drive system, aerodynamics and design were optimized and the proof of this is the lap time around the 14 mile Nürburgring Nordschleife of 7 min 20 seconds. The reason for this breathtaking performance is the 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine which produces 500 hp (368 kW) and 460 Nm of torque. The power is transmitted onto the road via the very special PDK transmission.

And if you wonder about the acceleration time: the street legal model can sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds and to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 10.9 seconds.

There is a total of 10 kg saved from the weight of the model and this is due to the implementation of magnesium for the roof and carbon fibre for the engine and luggage compartment lids. Combined with RS-specific aerodynamic components like the front spoiler lip and the large rear wing, it is no surprise that this Porsche is so powerful.

Other standard features that will delight the lucky owners are the bi-Xenon headlights, sports exhaust and dynamic engine mounts. There is a choice of 20- or 21-inch forged alloys that are complemented by the PASM and PTV, or Porsche Active Suspension Management and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, respectively.

Alcantara interior was fitted for the sake of luxury, but what makes more impression are the sports seats that are based on the carbonfibre ‘bucket’ seats of the 918 Spyder. Club Sport Package comes as a standard in contrast to the Sport Chrono Package. While the first adds a roll cage, the second will optionally include several technology tweaks.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS is currently available to order with first cars arriving in showrooms in May.

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