Lidia Todorova – Page 97 – Automobiles Review

Honda Civic Type R is Finally Here [VIDEO]

After five long years the new Honda Civic Type R is here! The hatch was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show two days ago, thus giving all fans (me as well) the pleasure of viewing one of the most anticipated cars. And the question is simple: Is the wait worth it? I’m going to talk about this in a minute after previewing what’s new in the Type R.

First and foremost, the red ‘H’ badged car will be driven by the 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine, which finds its world-first application here. In fact, in Type R’s 22 years of history this is the most extreme and high-performing engine used.

Regarding the details, the maximum power that this unit can produce is 310 hp (228 kW) at 6,500 rpm, and the optimum torque is 400 Nm (303 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm. And if you are a Honda fan than you’ll definitely know that these numbers are higher than any previous ones. Although I did expect more from the performance of this car, it is still satisfactory for a front-wheel driven hatch.

The 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration sprint is covered in just 5.7 seconds and the top speed is of 270 km/h (167 mph).

In terms of styling we see the typical Civic Type R form, but there are some details that need to be mentioned and I find very intriguing. First, the car was subject to substantial aerodynamic analysis and testing. As a result the development of the car continued via computer-based CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing, and later with extensive prototype testing on the road and on track.

Rear diffuser and rear wing have been both redesigned as well as the wide front splitter and deep side skirts. Heat is managed via the enlarged upper and lower grilles in the front bumper, while the airflow is channelled to outlet vents above the wheels.

Speaking of wheels, the car rides on lightweight 19-inch alloys fitted with 235/35R19 tyres that were specially made for the Type R. Brembo brake package is what takes car for the stopping power of the car. At the front there are four-piston calipers with 350 mm drilled discs.

Besides the Championship White exterior color, this Civic will be also offered in the pearlescent Crystal Black, metallic Polished Metal and Brilliant Sporty Blue as well as in Milano Red.

In terms of interior, we have nothing much different than the previous generation model. And this is where I am little disappointed, because I have obviously expected more. Take for instance the gear lever knob which is made from machined aluminium alloy. The black sports seats and the red double stitching are also present.

Nevertheless two innovative things about this Honda immediately grab the attention. The first one is the ‘+R’button and the second is the GT Pack. The ‘+R’ button increases the response of the chassis and drivetrain systems. As a result the driver will get better driving experience. But before we test the car we can’t say if this is true.

Also exclusive to the Type R is the GT Pack which gives those needed individual enhancements. Here are included front red highlights and rear splitters, rear parking sensors, dusk sensing headlamps, rain sensing automatic wipers and electric fold door mirrors, and many more.

httpv://youtu.be/J76kVLYJXWA

httpv://youtu.be/QSt02xpRe9Y

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

March 5, 2015

Lexus LF-SA Concept is Tiny but Revolutionary [VIDEO]

So far, we uploaded only teasers of the Lexus LF-SA Concept and now it is the time to present this cute tiny car in its full glory. It is a vehicle which focuses on company’s ideas for future design and implementations of technology. The exterior color exudes adventurous spirit, and it is namely the Stellar Silver. This is a clear reference that the design is space-related and fortunately not only on the outside but also on the inside.

The exterior proportions of the car are impressive, since it isn’t typical for a carmaker to create such a tiny car (excluding Smart). Precisely, the length of the concept is 3,400mm, width is 1,700mm and height is 1,430mm. This signals for an urban-related design and somehow gives us hopes for production.

At the front we see the latest version of company’s spindle grille, angular pattern and a design which influences the front wings and side bodywork of the car. The new grille also incorporates L-shaped lamp clusters in a flying buttress design. My most favorite element of the design of this car is the form of the wheels. They aren’t conventional and if you want to know what I am talking about you should definitely view the gallery below.

In terms of interior, Lexus has provided a very spacious cabin. Inside, one witnesses a sweeping dashboard in a 2+2 cabin layout. This clearly gives priority to the driver. What is interesting here is that driver’s seat is fixed, while the steering wheel and pedals are adjustable allowing more flexibility.

At last, the infotainment system comprises of a digital display in the instrument cluster and a wide-angle head-up display. This car is pretty revolutionary, isn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/IiiBuNNhvx4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Lexus

March 5, 2015

The Amazing Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept Lands in Geneva [VIDEO]

Last week we have promised to give you more information about a very special vehicle called the Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept. This unique project is made by Kahn and it is based on the Land Rover Defender. Three examples of the six-wheeler were revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. And what we basically see is the redesigned front grille and bumper as well as a square sectioned wide arch body kit.

As we have reported previously, the limited edition car has additional 400mm extension to the bonnet, while there is 1000mm (and not 800mm as we stated) extension to the rear cabin. In addition, the width has been increased by 150 mm. The same happened to the windscreen rake.

Under the hood of the Huntsman sleeps the powerful 6.2-litre GM LS3 V8 engine which is coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox and delivers up to 430 horsepower (317 kW). Braking and suspension have been also upgraded and what rounds out the changes in terms of engineering is the quad crosshair exhaust system.

Furthermore, Huntsman Concept can be transformed into B4 and B6 armored variants. There are also several potential engine options like the V8 Ford Coyote and V8 Ford XS, intended for those wanting more power and torque.

The CEO and Creative Director of Kahn Group said that it is a pity vehicle like the Defender to retire. For this reason his aims were focused on creating a concept which is fashionable, iconic and revolutionary. And he did.

httpv://youtu.be/cgOfK_Li5WA

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Kahn Design

March 5, 2015

Look at Morgan Aero 8! It’s Unique! [VIDEO]

Morgan Aero 8 – I’ve been waiting for you for a long! This manifestation of beauty, luxury and immortal design has just been revealed at the Geneva Auto Show. The car is that impressive because it is lightweight and at the same time powerful enough to take down some of the most exclusive cars in the industry. The British company says that this is the most refined Aero product it has made up to date. For this are responsible some significant visual and mechanical changes.

The 5th generation Aero cabriolet is powered by a 4.8 litre V8 BMW engine, which is quite different of what we have expected. Nevertheless, the unit has the capability of generating 367 hp (270 kW). The powerplant is mated to a six speed transmission, manual or automatic, depending on the preference of the driver.

In terms of styling, this is a typical Morgan. The design of the Aero Eight has been inspired (as usual) by the cars from the sixties. Just like them it features slim and elongated profile with a cabin focused bodywork.

Furthermore, the rear opening clam shell boot serves to tension and hide the double-lined mohair hood. Aero 8 is also offered with an optional hardtop for those keener on coupes. Inside, those lucky two will enjoy a brand new dashboard and wooden surrounds. To complement this, Morgan has also added textured box-woven carpets and fine leather trim. The optional interior equipment features touch screen media systems, low slung carbon seats and bespoke detailing packs.

Let us see why the driver will benefit from more responsive driving and better handing. First of all, the aluminium chassis has been improved via torsional stiffness. Next, the front end was remade. There are also brand new suspension and anti-roll bars as well as BMW limited slip differential. In terms of safety, this car benefits from features such as ABS or power steering, cruise control and airbags.

2015 Morgan Aero 8 will enter production in the end of the year. There will be limited numbers of it, but they will offer infinite combinations of personalization. It would be nice owning one, wouldn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/qZvkdmzxvNo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Morgan

March 4, 2015

GTA Spano Showing Its “Graphene” Construction in Geneva

Instead of writing about my most favorite car (Civic Type R) and its world premiere in Geneva, I decided to focus on something more unconventional. In the end I’ll definitely review the “red badged beast”, but it is now more important to bring the attention on a model which is made in Spain. And presuming that I am not talking about the Seat, you have probably already figured it out – it is the GTA Spano.

In 2015 GTA Spano seems to be the first supersports car which has incorporated in its structure a revolutionary material such as the graphene. But this is not new information. As Spania GTA says this car is an entirely new model, and although we can’t see as many differences on the outside as we have imagined, the company states that the changes have been internal and include literally all components.

Precisely, the new carbon monocoque chasis features innovative elements like the titanium and graphene. They were chosen not only because of their rigidity but also because of their lightweight characteristics. As a matter of fact, the chassis and even the leather have incorporated graphene during their manufacturing.

Speaking of innovations, at the heart of this supercar lies the V10 twin Turbo 7,990 cm3 engine. It produces 925 hp (680 kW) and 1220 Nm (900 lb-ft) of torque. The powerful unit is coupled with a sequential seven-speed gearbox which is carbon synchronized.

This new power system accelerates the GTA Spano from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds on a way to a top speed of 370 km/h. And this is pretty impressive. The Spanish company will produce only 99 examples of this beauty so if you are keen on buying one you’d better hurry. What’s left in question is our desire to know more about this special graphene material.

Source: GTA Motor

March 4, 2015

Bentley Shows Intriguing Concept in Geneva: Meet the EXP 10 Speed 6

We have seen a very interesting concept at the Geneva Motor Show displayed by Bentley – the EXP 10 Speed 6. This car envisions company’s future design and performance capabilities with the needed level of luxury typical for Bentley. The two seater sportscar has obviously inherited the credentials of company’s racing success through the years.

In other words, this concept should be Bentley’s epitome of its vision for the future. The contemporary automotive design is complemented by highly skilled British handcrafting and of course by the most luxurious of materials and highest in performance technology. And if you take a closer look at the car it seems like it is a “baby” Continental GT, isn’t it?

Speaking of Continental, the model just received new styling enhancements and improved technology features. Precisely, the GT version now includes new exterior design features such as front bumper, smaller radiator shell, while the fenders have been made more pronounced.

Furthermore, there are three additional exterior colors available, while for the interior Bentley ensured that there are new seat patterns, steering wheel, gear paddles and more. Onboard WiFi is really delightful, but what’s more intriguing is the improvement to the W12 engine.

The unit can now show-off with power and torque increase, from 567 hp (423 kW) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) to 582 hp (434 kW) and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft). What about the eco-friendliness and economy of the car. Well, Bentley isn’t saying much, except for their word that they have been also improved.

Next, Flying Spur features improvements in terms of luxury, while the Mulsanne Speed aims to deliver the fastest ultra-luxury driving experience. There is nothing new around this model but still, its characteristics and capabilities are impressive. It is powered by the 6¾-litre twin-turbo V8 engine which accelerates it from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds and from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, on to a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h).

Source: Bentley

March 4, 2015

Aston Martin DBX Concept: Strange Mix Of Luxury and All-Electric AWD

The next vehicle on the spot comes from my personally favorite brand Aston Martin. It is called DBX Concept and was again revealed in the Swiss city. It has the styling characteristics of its siblings but somehow it reminds me of a muscle car mixed with a Peugeot RCZ. It is obvious that the concept was created with the aim to bring some new insights to the luxury GT segment, like the sense of more practicality.

The brand even says that it focuses on family and eco-friendliness, which is true since the car runs on pure electricity. In addition, the design is harmonious and evokes powerful stance with hints to the future development of the brand. In other words, the all-wheel drive DBX Concept effortlessly incorporates the traditional Aston Martin beauty with the new engineering applied in it.

Exterior-wise, the body of the car is made of machined billet aluminum and has visible milling lines. The paint finish, Black Pearl Chromium, further strengthens the presence of the model, incorporating micro-fine layer of chrome. This helped the designers deliver a truly unique exterior paint, that can’t be obtained via usual techniques.

The concept is suitable for four people and it features huge space available for the luggage. Inside, we see the purity of luxury applied via the cutting edge style and advanced technology. Precisely, the standard materials used inside include Nubuck leather, sandwiched accent layer, gold ‘pin striping’ element on the edging and more.

But this car, in my opinion, challenges the conventional thinking in other terms. First, DBX Concept needs no engine compartment. Why? Because it uses electric motors that are powered by lithium sulphur cells.

Other technology advancements that need to be mentioned are the drive-by-wire electric steering and the driver and passenger head-up displays. Not to mention the toughened glass with an auto-dimming ‘smart glass’ inter-layer.

Active LEDs light the way of this concept, while carbon ceramic brakes with a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) take care for the perfect stop. There are no conventional rearview mirrors here because they have been substituted with rear view cameras.

Despite that I really like this car, this question still bothers me: Could it be capable of catching up with the performance of a real, gasoline-driven, Aston Martin? There are no details regarding the power output of the model, or any performance figures. This “little” fact gives me the feeling that we won’t see the DBX in production anytime soon.

Source: Aston Martin

March 4, 2015

Have you seen the Nissan Sway Concept?

Geneva Motor Show started yesterday and this is where many new cars and concepts were revealed. A very special instance is the Nissan Sway Concept whish redefines the design language used for the small cars. It is so beautiful that literally takes the breath away. One thing I personally don’t like is how the doors open. Follow my thoughts and you’ll understand why. The new bold design is edgy and fresh. The interior is innovative with a lot of technology features.

Following the steps of the Qashqai and Juke, this new Nissan model is destined to bring more success to the brand. This means that the compact hatchback offers a first glimpse of how the future generation compact cars would look like. Especially those distributed in Europe.

Some of the most striking elements of the exterior are the V-motion grille, boomerang lamps and kicked-up C-pillar. At the back, the lights are also boomerang and are accompanied by the trapezoidal exhaust pipes.

The rear doors do not open normally and this is what really bothers me. Instead, both front and rear doors seem to taken inspiration from some Rolls-Royce models forgetting they are just Nissan’s. The new design language incorporated in the interior also includes floating roof, which is simply a panoramic glass roof. This is advantageous because those sitting inside will have the sense of space.

“Bluish dawn grey” is the name of the exterior paint color. It seems like this hue have some hints of blue visible under light. This is harmonized via the contrasting orange color. Inside, the color combination is the same. However the blue is darker, while the ivory and orange hues are used for the stitching.

What really captivate me in the interior are the basics of the design. For instance, there are just two instruments facing the driver, while the other functions can be viewed on a huge trapezoidal tablet. In other words, with this concept Nissan has once again brought some innovative ideas to the automotive world. The next logical question is who is to mimic this car first?

Sway Dimensions (mm)
Length	4,010
Width	1,780
Height	1,385
Wheelbase	2,570

Source: Nissan

March 4, 2015

Flying Huntsman 110 WB 6×6 Concept Debuts in Geneva! Go See it!

Geneva Motor Show is around the corner and so is Kahn’s long-awaited project called the Flying Huntsman 110. It is no secret that the prototype will be officially revealed at the event and for this reason the tuner has sent us one last picture and some detailed information ahead of debut. The WB 6×6 coach-built concept is based on the Land Rover Defender 110 and also carries a codename “Mission 1”.

Will this concept challenge the rest of the automotive world – it is still a mystery, but it is definitely intended to do so. To proceed with the details, it is now official that the 6.2-litre GM LS3 V8 engine under the hood of the Huntsman will produce exactly 430 horsepower (316 kW). And this is pretty impressive since it is far more in comparison to the original.

All this power will be transmitted onto the road via a six-speed automatic gearbox that has a tap shift control. Furthermore, Kahn Design has strengthened the off-road capabilities of the Defender, making it capable of managing even the roughest terrain. This is due to the rugged heavy duty chassis, the updated braking and suspension systems as well as the hi-lo ratio drive system and locking differentials.

There have been some substantial changes to the exterior that make this project unique.

Extensions to the bonnet measure 400mm, while these to the rear cabin – 800mm.

The vehicle has been also widened by 150mm, and these numbers actually make me want to see this vehicle for real.

This masterful appearance will be further supported by increased windscreen rake and wider rear door. Changes have been applied to the front doors too, which are now longer and allow easier entry.

In addition, the added panoramic roof starts from the B pillars and continues until it reaches the rear. The other exterior styling tweaks is said to be inspired by Kahn’s Chelsea Truck Company Defenders so this is a good reason to expect aggressive and striking appearance.

More importantly, the tuner is making plans for producing the Huntsman in up to five potential variants featuring four and six wheel versions. There are is also the option of making it not only a hard top but also a pickup, depending on customers’ response.

If these details aren’t enough for you, then you will definitely have to wait until next week, when Kahn is promising to give us the full details of the concept. Stay tuned!

Source: Kahn Design

February 27, 2015

MTM Unleashes Three Reinterpreted Audis at the Geneva Motor Show

Audi S8 Talladega S, RS6 Clubsport and S3 Cabrio are the MTM remastered models which will gather the glances at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Starting with the first mentioned, the vehicle joins the Audi 200 in its aims to show exhilarating performance records at the Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. Although the current Talladega S is larger, it is still capable of the same velocity due to its powerful unit.

Precisely, the engine produces 802 hp (590 kW) but this is not everything that the car can show-off with. MTM has given it the magic of luxurious interior imbued with carbon-fiber and hand-crafted leather.

At MTM’s Geneva stand we will also see the RS6 Clubsport that is 80 kg lighter than before. The 4.0 TFSi Quattro engine was tweaked and now delivers up to 760 hp (559 kW) and 945 Nm (697 lb-ft) of torque. The transmission here is the 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox and it helps the car score a 3 seconds 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint.

At last, the final Audi in the trio is the S3 Cabrio that stands proud with enhanced 2.0 TFSi unit. The power output is now 426 hp (313 kW) and the torque reaches 530 Nm (391 lb-ft). It is therefore no surprise that the open-top S3 can reach the 100 km/h in a mere 5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 270 km/h.

If you wonder about the modification, well MTM has ensured that the powerplant gets a turbocharger and ECU mapping as well as modified Cat and exhaust system. Each of the cars has also received chassis refinement. Which one would you like to drive?

Source: MTM

February 27, 2015

Toyota 86 Pro-Am Makes it Official in the V8 Supercars Events

2015 Toyota 86 Pro-Am is a vicious motorsport car based on the 86 coupe, which is going to compete in the famous V8 Supercars events. They are scheduled for next year and this is where the car will run as a “pro-am” driven by up to five selected people. The race vehicles will be actually based on the GT manual version of the popular coupe and will feature some key specifications. It is said that the Pro-Am cars will deliver suitability and reliability but at the same time will be affordable.

Furthermore, Neal Bates Motorsport has been selected to develop a race package optimization for the car. Therefore several important features will be added. Among them are the new suspension and brakes, specific exhaust treatment, ECU tuning for the engine, remote oil cooler and a brand new wheels and R-type tires. As an option there is also a mandatory safety gear.

Toyota’s 86 one-make series for the Supercars events will be like those we have seen racing in Japan and Germany. As a matter of fact, the company has successfully competed in the US-based NASCAR, Dakar Rally, Super Formula and Super GT categories in Japan, as well as at the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race.

86 Pro-Am will be driven by a powerful engine, which generates 200 hp (147 kW) at 7000 rpm and a maximum torque of 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) at 6600 rpm. The total weight of the car is 1222 kg which promises and exhilarating performance, but as for any other details, Toyota has been in silence. More information will be disclosed in the months to come.

Source: Toyota

February 27, 2015

Mercedes-AMG GT3 Racer is Fully Revealed!

After we had a glimpse of what the Mercedes-AMG GT3 car would look like, now it is time to have a full view on it. In addition, there is some impressive data regarding its specifications. Although the famous carmaker has revealed only four pictures of the motorsports-beast we are extremely satisfied that the veil has been finally lifted. So, take a look at the gallery and tell us what you think.

The 2015 motorsport season starts in March, not literally of course, but with the start of the Geneva Motor Show, and this is where we are going to hear the V8 engine of the AMG GT3 roaring.

The car has all the necessary characteristics of a FIA GT3 racer, thus it will be eligible to compete in the race series. Spectacular design is what we can see from the photos, but what Mercedes ain’t telling us is the cutting-edge racing technology imbued in it.

Going straight to these facts, the 2015 GT3 car is based on the Mercedes-AMG GT. This means that both models have similar characteristics like the low centre of gravity, the perfectly distributed weight and wide track width. As a matter of fact, this layout is the reason of the precise cornering as well as the high lateral acceleration, exceptional agility and traction.

The design of the car is classy: the body is painted in matt designo selenite grey mango, while the large air intakes, diffuser and the rear aerofoil speak of extreme track performance. The vehicle is constructed with lightweight aluminium spaceframe, thus ensuring less weight and more aerodynamism.

Inside, the driver is protected via the carbon-fibre seat pan and the integral roll-over cage. For the purpose of weight savings the engine cover, doors, front wing, front and rear aprons, sidewalls, side skirts, diffuser, boot lid and rear aerofoil are all made from carbon-fibre.

The horsepower comes from the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine that is coupled with a six-speed sequential racing gearbox. The transmission is mounted in a transaxle configuration on the rear axle, which actually results in the perfect weight distribution. What’s left to be mentioned is the aluminium double-wishbone suspension.

The GT3 has gone through extensive testing and the company is saying that it will ship the racer to the customer teams at the end of this year.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

February 27, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova