Author: autoview

  • LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 is Dressed to Impress

    2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4

    LIGHTWEIGHT tuner has set its eyes on BMW X4. Thanks to the professional team, the crossover-SUV is “dressed to impress”. The car has gained optimized and more exciting look and can now demonstrate stronger driving dynamics.

    The performance improvements are done with the help of an extra control unit that guarantees 365 HP (268 kW) with a peak torque of 690 Nm. Another way is through field boost which delivers even more horses, precisely 375 HP (276 kW). Torque rates are increased to 700 Nm. Finally there is a Vmax-increase up to 280 km/h.

    When we observe the tweaked BMW X4 from the outside, it looks more powerful than ever. The dark frozen gray finish makes the car look sleek, stylish and ready to rock n’ roll. In order to ensure optimal protection of this Bavarian beast, the tuning company has wrapped the car in ceramic two-component solid filling. It is applied on the discs too. The exterior is complimented by LIGHTWEIGHT-carbon fiber mirror covers, spoiler and rear apron insert. Black gloss or carbon fiber front spoiler is also part of the highlights on the outside. There is a Hartge-Classic 2-wheelset in 9.5×21. It comes with Michelin PilotSuperSport in 245/35-21 at the FA and in 10.5×21 with 265/30-21 at the RA. The wheelset is protected with four component permanent sealing. 30 mm lowering is available too thanks to the in-house suspension with Bilstein-parts.

    2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 Interior

    Interiorly, LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 consists of black alcantara. A LIGHTWEIGHT-logo adorn the velour floor mats while the center console stands out with double contrast stitching. There are aluminum pedals and LIGHTWEIGHT-auxiliary display contributing to the good-looking interior of the vehicle.

    The car is priced at 88 000 Euro.

    Source: miranda-media.de

  • Meet the new Chevy Colorado’s Midnight and Trail Boss editions

    2016 Chevrolet Colorado Midnight and Z71 Trail Boss

    Chevrolet is introducing its dazzling 2016 Chevrolet Colorado’s Midnight Edition and Z71 Trail Boss. Both of the vehicles make a visual statement to remember and stand out with their bold appearances. The designs are a combination between bespoke cues and the well-known Colorado’s DNA. Colorado Midnight edition and the Z71 Trail Boss also arrive with leading efficiency rates and capabilities.

    Firstly, let’s look more closely at the 2016 Colorado Midnight Edition. It is powered by 2.5L and 3.6L engines. However, it is stated to be available with a brand-new 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine as well which leaves customers with even more choices. This model inherits some characteristics from its predecessor, 2015 Chevy Silverado Midnight Edition – precisely the feel of saturated blackness. The Colorado underlines its aggressive look thanks to the blacked-out design theme which incorporates black grille, black bowtie emblem and black 18-inch aluminum wheels.

    Secondly, 2016 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss arrives with aggressively looking tires and off-road-inspired improvements on the outside. Similarly to the 2016 Midnight Edition, this one will get its power from 2.5L and 3.6L engines, plus the 2.8L Duramax diesel. Exteriorly, the off-road truck impresses with all-new sport bar with LED trail lighting, bowtie grille emblem in black and 17-inch aluminum wheels with black finish. They are complimented by Goodyear Wrangler DuraTec® 265/65R17 all-terrain tires. On the inside drivers can enjoy a set of all-weather floor mats for more practicality.

    2016 Colorado Z71 Trail Boss

    Prices are yet to be announced.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • ABT Sportsline Gives More Power to Audi S3 Limo

    ABT Audi S3 Limo

    Audi is a brand which has climbed to the top of its quality. Manufacturers envision it as the ultimate truth in engineering. Tuners see it as a venue for experiments which happen to be successful almost every time. Marque-lovers accept it as the king of kings in the automotive world. Of course, there are many who are ready to disagree with this but we have to admit that the Bavarian auto-giant knows how to satisfy its customers.

    Let’s jump to the main point. Audi S3 limo is truly a remarkable car. It demonstrates excellent performance and great driving dynamics. And now ABT Sportsline has decided to push the capabilities of the S3 even further thanks to their ABT Power New Generation control unit. Thanks to the upgrades, the car now impresses with 370 HP (272 kW) and a maximum torque of 460 Nm, When we take into consideration the fact that it has jumped from 380 Nm to the current figures, the difference is quite huge. And still, if these rates do not seem high enough, ABT Sportsline offers a more powerful ABT Power S package which will give you no less than 400 HP (294 kW) and 480 Nm.

    The 33% upgrade is the result of the software as well as the ABT exhaust system. The latter is comprised of pre-pipe and sport-type catalytic converter. In addition to this, ABT also offers right sport-type sway bars for the front and rear axle. An optional front grille and sporty fender inserts are available too. Audi S3 limo has also been tweaked with ABT rear skirt set, front silencer and stainless steel muffler with black chrome-plated end pipes included.

    2015 ABT Audi S3 Limo Exhaust System

    Finishing touch add the brand new 20-inch ABT FR allow wheels. CR, DR or ER-Cs ca be purchased as well, depending on the model. They vary from 18- to 20-inch and come with different finishes too.

    ABT S3 SALOON – DATA AND FACTS

    ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

    Engine: 2.0 TFSI, 1.984 cc capacity
    Performance tuning: ABT POWER “New Generation”
    Performance: 370 HP/ 272 kW (standard: 300 HP/ 221 kW)460 Nm (standard: 380 Nm)
    Engine: 2.0 TFSI, 1.984 cc capacity
    Performance tuning: ABT POWER S “New Generation”
    Performance: 400 HP/ 294 kW (standard: 300 HP/ 221 kW)480 Nm (standard: 380 Nm)

    ABT AERODYNAMICS

    • ABT front grille
    • ABT fender inserts

    ABT rear skirt set (incl. front silencer and stainless steel rear muffler with black chrome-plated end pipes)

    ABT WHEELS in design FR, ER-C, DR or CR in 8.5 x 18, 8.5 x 19 or 9.0 x 20 inches

    • Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tires in sizes 225/40 R18, 225/35 R19 or 235/30 R20

    ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY

    • ABT stainless steel muffler system with four black chrome-plated end pipes (90 mm Ø)

    ABT SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY

    • ABT anti-rollbars set for front and rear axle

    ABT INTERIOR

    • ABT floor mats
    • ABT integrated entrance lights
    • ABT start-stop button with integrated, illuminated ABT logo

    Source: ABT Sportsline

  • Ford Introduces Innovative Performance Shift Light Indicator for Mustang Shelby GT350

    Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 shift light indicator

    This fall we are expecting to see the new Mustang Shelby GT350 fully revealed but before this happens, we have something really exciting to share. One of the most important things for any driver is to stay focused on the road as much as possible, avoiding unnecessary distractions. In order to optimize the safe driving experience, Ford has now introduced their innovative Performance Shift Light Indicator.

    This newly introduced technology offers the advantage of a shift light, thus enabling drivers to keep their eyes on the track instead of constantly checking their tachometer. But what exactly does the ground-breaking shift light indicator represent? It is a heads-up display positioned right in front of the person who drives the car. The indicator can be controlled via the driver information center in the gauge cluster. Customers have the option to adjust the light intensity and to set their own shift points. Moreover, they can choose between three different modes, including: Track, Tach and Drag.

    • Track Mode: when engine revs build, LEDs light up from the outside ends to the center until the shift point is reached. After that the entire LED bar flashes.
    • Tach Mode: the amber LEDs light up consecutively from left to right as engine revs build to reveal an easy to see tachometer.
    • Drag Mode: it allows the driver to set their own shift point as well. This time, however, the whole LED light bar stays dark at first. Then it starts flashing repeatedly when the engine reaches the preset rpm threshold.

    The heads-up shift light comes as standard on the all new Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R. An interesting fact is that Performance Shift Light Indicator was inspired by an already existing hardware. Precisely, Ford engineer Mike Makled originally built a prototype version of the indicator in his Ford Taurus SHO. While driving, he came to a sudden stop in traffic and the car’s collision warning with brake support system flashed its red LED heads-up display. This led Makled into thinking.

    As previously mentioned, Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R are being introduced later this year. The models are envisioned as really special as they will be limited to 137 units only. The cars will be built in order to honor the original 1965 Shelby GT350 created by Shelby American.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EouWzv_2Avs

    Source: Ford

  • Are you a fan of muscle-cars? 2015 Challenger Dream Giveaway has something for you then!

    2015 HellcatX Dodge Challenger SRT

    History tends to repeat itself in various forms and various manners. This happens in the car-manufacturing world quite often too. One model inherits something from its predecessor and follows the path of progression of the first-born. Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat X is an example of such case where old automobile history reincarnates some of its aspect into a new automotive body.

    It won’t be an exaggeration if we say that perhaps every muscle-car lover keeps a poster of the Hellcat X on their wall, dreaming of owning one such jewelry. Well, they should be more than delighted to find out that there is light in the tunnel. And no, it is not the approaching train. It is rather the light of a unique opportunity. Now 2015 Challenger Dream Giveaway® gives a chance to people to enter a competition and win a one-off prize package which includes precisely, the Dodge Challenger in question and the 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T.

    Inspired by the U.S. Aviation prototype XF6F Hellcat, the supercharged Dodge Challenger Hellcat X is loaded with a 2L HEMI engine that is capable of generating 805 HP. The car is built in honor of WWII pilots of Hellcat fighter aircraft. This one-of-a-kind supercar excites with accented front grille surround, center hood scoop, Navy-inspired raw-aluminum hood extractors, hand-made rear diffusor and, lastly, adaptable high-speed chin spoiler as well as deck lid spoiler. Inside the car exclusivity keeps running as the winner will find embroidered Hellcat X callouts on the front seat backs and on the floor mats.

    The other beauty, 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, on the other hand dazzles with well-known high-performance features like a 440 Magnum V-8 engine, Pistol Grip four-speed, and a Supergrip limited-slip rear. Leaving the factory assembly line 45 years ago, the R/T had already established itself as a rare one. This Dodge Challenger was one of less than 100 black Challenger vehicles which adopted the 440 U-code/four-speed package. An interesting fact about it is that exactly this car was used in a TV commercial called “Revolution Reborn” which showcased “Dodge’s DNA of American exceptionalism then and now.”

    Does this sound tempting to you? Well, do not hesitate then and enter the competition in order to get one of these unmatched cars.

    Source: Dream Giveaway via Youtube

  • Aston Martin DB10: The Brightest Star in the Newest James Bond Movie

    Aston Martin DB10

    “You have no authority. None.” These are the very first words we hear in the new James Bond movie trailer. However, the beauty by Aston Martin which features in the film seems to have plenty of authority there. A surplus of it in fact.

    The most scandalous secret agent is back and this time around he returns with much more saturated flair for action, motion and dynamism. His mission is yet again simple, in the most complex way of course – survival. Clearly other people get involved too and Bond has to keep them alive as well. There are too many flying bullets after all. And explosions. And even more explosions after that.

    A puzzling message from the agent’s past sends him to Mexico City and then to Rome where he is supposed to uncover the existence of a sinister “supergrop” – Spectre. As if his journey is not complicated enough but he meets the gorgeous Monica Bellucci, pardon, Lucia Sciarra, who makes things even more complicated as she is the widow of an infamous criminal.

    So far we have got The Man and The Women. The only thing that is missing is, well, The Car. Bond movies are well-known for their choices of automotive splendor and Spectre is ready to show us some more of it. The newest cinematic production will amaze us with Jaguar and Land Rover models. However, the brightest star is that of the stunning Aston Martin DB10 that perfectly matches the blasting nature of the storyline itself. From what we can hear and see the DB10 is a manual beast that acknowledges no limits. And walls too.

    Aston Martin DB10 Side

    The bespoke car was created exclusively for James Bond: Spectre with ten units that will be hand-built in-house by Aston Martin’s design and engineering teams in Gaydon. The manufacturer specified a few details about the car such as its 4.7 litre V8 engine and the 6-speed manual transmission unit.

    All in all, the movie promises to deliver spectacular fast-motion moments that will make one’s heart stop and then start pulsating 007 times faster than before. The movie is officially coming out in October 26th.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTDaET-JweU

    Image Source: Aston Martin

    Video Source: YouTube

  • See Lexus RC F V8 coupe which displays human’s heartbeat!

    Lexus RC F V8 coupe heartbeat-01

    More and more industries are trying to incorporate the interconnection between machine and men into their products. This time around this is done by Lexus which collaborated with the creative agency M&C Saatchi. The two companies succeeded in crafting a one – off vehicle that very impressively manages to display a person’s heartbeat integrated in its bodywork.

    The unique Lexus RC F V8 coupe has adopted a number of innovative technologies in order to showcase something that we have never seen before. The human-machine connection is materialized literally. But how exactly does this happen? The first stage of the system functions by transporting the heartbeat of a connected person from a heart rate monitor to a customized electrical system featuring in the RC F.

    After that, the system catches the received information, processes it and then sends an electric charge across the car’s body panels. The latter are colored in electroluminescent paint finish which is created by US-based expert Lumilor. Finally, when the electric charge moves through the original paint, it glows and shows the driver’s heartbeat via a real-time animation sequence.

    Lexus RC F V8 heartbeat

    With such high-performance vehicle, Lexus are going one step ahead of their competitors. This creation is bold, exclusive and will definitely be remembered and taken as an example in the future. Along with this, the Japanese luxury marque has developed other innovative projects like the new Lexus hoverboard and the smart outdoor advertising billboards which can respond to the car you are driving. Amazing, isn’t it?

    Source: Lexus

  • Is Infiniti Q30 Premium Active Compact better than 2013 Infiniti Q30 Concept?

    Infiniti Q30 Premium Active CompactThere is good news for Infiniti fans as the automaker is taking down the camouflage of their unique Q30 Premium Active Compact ahead of its premiere. The Hong Kong-established luxury division of Nissan unveiled just one image, but it says enough. At least exteriorly.

    The luxury hatchback arrives with an acute style, a pinch of exclusivity and a lot of driving dynamics. Despite the fact that it is envisioned as a model that somewhat “times” the swoopy lines of its predecessor, precisely Infiniti Q30 Concept, the new model still exhibits an ostensible level of edginess. And it is exactly these design cues that really distinguish the car from the crowd.

    Technical data and specifics about this category-breaking vehicle are still missing. However, it won’t be a surprise if the engine of the new Infiniti will be presented in the form of a hybrid. Conventional four-cylinder powertrain is likely to be adopted too. We will wait and see.

    Infiniti Q30 Premium Active Compact showcases provoking characteristics, confident attitude, high-class handling, excellent ride and, lastly, responsive performance. From the picture we can see that the expressive bodylook of the hatchback are further complimented by its sleekness. The masculinity of the car is defined by the nicely-shaped rectangular grille and sharply-looking headlamps. We cannot deny the fact that the Premium Active Compact is also aggressively-looking which is just enough to make onlookers follow the smooth motion of the car while on the road.

    The world premiere of the new Infiniti Q30 will be hosted at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany this fall.

    Source: Infiniti

  • 2016 Buick Encore Sport Touring: Is This the Better Version?

    2016 Buick Encore frontDistinguishing. Attractive. Sexy. These are just some of the superlatives which can be used to describe the 2016 Buick Encore Sport Touring. Mentioning the fact that it is super comfortable just metamorphoses the SUV into a top of the range model! It is truly a car for people with character. And that includes men as well.

    The new Encore Sport Touring had quite successful year in 2015 and from what we can see it seems like 2016 is going to be promising as well. Hopefully the car will exceed last year’s number of sales which went up by 29 percent for the first six months. Well done Buick!

    This time around the compact crossover is even more exclusive as it will be fitted with an all-new 1.4L turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It also has direct injection and stop/start technology. The only thing in common with the standard Encore 1.4L turbo power unit is found in its displacement. Apart from that, we can say only one thing – welcome updates!

    All in all, we have bolstered features such as:

    • Engine efficiency which is due to the reduced friction. So now there are low-friction piston rings, a low-friction camshaft drive and a low-friction oil pump
    • More strength and lowered down engine vibration thanks to a durable steel crankshaft
    • Powder-metal steel connecting rods and tough hypereutectic-alloy aluminum pistons
    • A variable-flow oiling system that helps maximize fuel efficiency
    • Piston-cooling oil jets that decrease piston temperatures. This results in boosted performance, improved efficiency and better emissions

    2016 Buick Encore rear

    Doesn’t sound bad at all, right? But let’s make the whole picture even more fuming by pointing out that the engine of the Buick Encore Sport Touring is capable of generating around 153 HP (112 kW) and 240 Nm of torque (177 lb-ft). This has been estimated to be approximately 11 percent more horsepower and nearly 20 percent more torque than the Encore’s standard engine. Which is great.

    Exteriorly, this red little beast demonstrates spirit, stance and action which are able to catch the eye of James Bond who has decided to go on a vacation to cool his temper a bit. The hot bodylook is complemented by 18-inch aluminum premium-finish wheels, body-color door handles, winged rear spoiler, enhanced outside rearview mirrors with signal indicators and blue-accented halogen composite projector-beam headlamps.

    Inside drivers can enjoy fold-flat front passenger seat which extends the cargo length and accommodates items up to eight feet long, QuietTuning with Bose Active Noise Cancellation technology and OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot, including a three-month/3GB data trial.

    However, there is one drawback. If you like the 2016 Encore Sport Touring, you will have to wait until this fall when the car will officially go on sale.

    Source: Buick

  • Meet the New Temptation for All Truck-lovers: Ford F-150 Limited

    2016 Ford F-150 Limited FrontIt will not come as a surprise if we say that the New Ford F-150 Limited answers the expectations of all truck-lovers. Their demands and needs for a powerful-looking and powerful-being truck has been acknowledged by the American automaker and now there is this final piece of majesty and art. The new top-of-the-line Ford adds up tougher, rougher and other “er” characters to the F-150 model lineup, thus building a proper image of what a high-end truck should look like.

    The 2016 F-150 Limited stuns with an advanced and more fuel-efficient 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6. The engine breathes out 365 HP and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined. Additionally, the powertrain is matched with an electronic six-speed automatic transmission that offers tow/haul and sport modes featuring SelectShift® with progressive range select. On top of this, all four-wheel-drive models are fitted with two-speed automatic four-wheel drive that automatically changes between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The shift depends on the driving surface traction conditions of course.

    In terms of the outside look of the F-150 Limited, it has undergone some refinements which include impressive 22-inch polished aluminum wheels, raised dimensional LIMITED lettering on the hood, one-of-a-kind grille and satin-finished chrome badge on the tailgate. What is more, there are body-color end caps featuring on the chrome front bumper. Other tweaks which accentuate the exterior are represented by the satin-chrome door handles and chrome exhaust tip. Customers can choose from several colors – Shadow Black, Magnetic, Blue Jeans and White Platinum Metallic tri-coat.

    2016 Ford F-150 Limited Interior

    The interior is equipped with cooled black and Mojave leather front seats that have Limited badging and showcase splendid design. A 10-way power adjustment and exclusive multicontour massaging are included as well. Passengers can enjoy heated rear seats and SYNC® 3 with AppLink™. Furthermore, Ford F-150 Limited is characterized by capacitive touch screan, a Sony® 10-speaker sound system with HD Radio™, subwoofer and single CD player with a five-year subscription to SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link to complete the package.

    2016 Ford F-150 Limited will be available for purchase this winter.

    2016 Ford F-150 Limited Standard Features Comparison

    Standard high-end features 2016 Ford
    F-150 Limited
    2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country 2016 Ram 1500 Limited
    Leather Yes Yes Yes
    Chrome Yes Yes Yes
    High-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body Yes No No
    Advanced gasoline turbo direct-injection engine Yes No No
    Quad-beam LED headlamps Yes No No
    Adaptive cruise control Yes No No
    Multicontour massaging seats Yes No No
    360-degree camera system Yes No No
    LED side-mirror spotlight Yes No No
    Remote tailgate release Yes No No

    Source: Ford

  • Meet the new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe

    2015-MB-front_thumb2015-MB-front_651

    The German luxury automobile maker Mercedes-Benz has proudly presented its latest and greatest model – the ultra luxurious and very powerful 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe model. The car packs awesome looks, a great interior and a new 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo gasoline engine that is more powerful and fuel-efficient than ever.

    Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH explains: “The new S63 AMG Coupe is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Now the S-Class Coupe also comes with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive – as we rigorously pursue our all-wheel-drive initiative. Mercedes-AMG is putting the pedal to the metal again in the new year. Our model initiative is set to continue at blistering pace in 2014.”

    The new car is full of new features and functions – it is up to 128 pounds (58 kg) lighter than its predecessor even though it comes with more standard equipment than before. The weight savings was achieved largely via the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminium. As you can imagine the lower weight improves driving dynamics and cuts on fuel consumption, moreover the low power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance: the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0-97 km/h) in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach an electronically-limited top speed of 186 mph (299 km/h).

    These results are possible thanks to the powerful AMG 5.5-liter V8 bi-turbo engine that remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. The unit delivers 577 HP (424 kW) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque. Compared to the previous CL63 AMG model, the new engine brings 41 HP and 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) of power, yet it needs less fuel.

    The new 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe also comes with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission. It brings maximum agility and exciting dynamics and drivers can configure their own personal set-up, depending on their driving style. There are three modes to choose from: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual). The ECO start/stop function is fitted as standard.

    The car also features an AMG sport exhaust system with automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear exhaust pipes. When the transmission is in “C” (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder bi-turbo engine’s sound is more understated. In “S” (Sport) and “M” (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. The result is an even fuller, hallmark AMG emotive engine sound. Moreover, the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe has permanent AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive. When driving 33 per cent of the engine torque gets sent to the front axle and 67 per cent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start. The all-wheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces when equipped with winter tires. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 37 lb-ft (50 Nm), which maximizes the frictional connection potential of all four wheels.

    The list of features goes on – the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe comes with a full air-suspension AIRMATIC system with an adaptive ADS PLUS damping system. Specific front axle kinematics – including higher camber, a larger anti-roll bar and a stiffer subframe carrier on the rear axle – have been developed exclusively for the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe. These measures enhance the vehicle’s agility for performance driving.

    As this is not enough the guys at Mercedes will also allow you to get some features as options. This is valid for the AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight while at the same time increasing strength. The lower unsprung masses result in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response.Optional wheels include 10-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a polished finish – 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tires respectively. The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is integrated into one of the ten spokes. These forged wheels are also available painted in matte black with a high-sheen rim flange. A high-performance composite brake system is also an option for the first time. The car comes equipped with a weight-optimized, fade-resistant AMG high- performance composite brake system. An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses and enhanced braking performance.

    There’s no need to say that the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is full of luxury and features great looks. The front end of the car is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG “twin-blade” radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). Whether in motion or stationary, distinctive AMG lettering between the twin-blade lamellas leaves no doubt: this is a high-performance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body color, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylized “A” that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle’s aerodynamic balance.Further eye-catching features include the large AMG designed wheels. “V8 BITURBO” lettering in a new, contemporary typography on the front wings is another hallmark AMG design touch. On the inside the car surprises in a good way too – the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap- around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty and exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sport seats with power adjustment, memory function and seat heating/ventilation offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine AMG design Nappa leather with piping together with AMG badges on all four seat backrests and an embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front center console create an exquisite atmosphere.

    The new three-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, and new aluminum shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gears to enhance performance. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the high-resolution TFT color AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer 200 mph scale (left) and the “V8 BITURBO” lettering in the rev counter (right).

    The new, innovative touchpad, included as standard equipment, makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. The safety and assistance systems are the same as those for the S550 4MATIC Coupe.

    Interested in the car? The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe had its world premiere at the 2014 New York International Auto Show in April of this year and US customers will be able to get the car sometime this fall. No word on pricing as of now.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2016 Chevy Volt to offer easier charging

    2016-Chevy-Volt_thumb2016-Chevy-Volt_651

    Electric cars have many benefits – a simpler chassis, fewer internal parts, no harmful emissions and more but people worry about being able or not to charge their cars when such a need arises. Chevrolet knows this very well and that’s why the new 2016 Chevy Volt will offer easier and more user-friendly charging.

    “Chevrolet used the real-world experiences of today’s Volt owners to make the charging process simpler and more convenient in the next-generation Volt,” said Andrew Farah, chief engineer for the Volt. “The new Volt will give owners greater flexibility for charging it on their terms.”

    The new car comes with improvements when it comes to recharging the battery and checking the battery level. There are three major new features that customers will get to enjoy – GPS location-based charging, new and more intuitive charge status indicators and portable cord enhancements.

    The GPS location-based charging will allow owners to set their charging preferences exclusively for their “home” charging location and the vehicle will automatically adjust to that setting when it is at that location. The car will recognize when it arrives “home” based on GPS data. This will allow owners to pre-set their charging level (8 amps or 12 amps on 120V only) and whether they wish to charge immediately, set a departure time for each day of the week, or set a departure time and a utility rate schedule to charge only at off-peak rates. Owners can input their local utility’s rate schedule into their Volt to assure they’re charging using the cheapest electricity rates. They will only have to program the system once and the Volt will return to these settings every time it is at its home location.

    The new and more intuitive charge status indicators make it easier for owners to confirm that their Volt is charging and to see what the status of the charge gauge is. The new status system features a specially designed tone that indicates when charging has begun, with additional tones for delayed charging. It will even indicate if the charge port door was left open after unplugging but before entering the vehicle. Moreover, if you glance through the windshield you can see an updated charge status indicator light on the on the top of the instrument panel to show the approximate charge level through a series of flashes.

    The portable cord set enhancements include a new 120V portable cord set that incorporates a cord that is nearly 25 feet long, which is longer than the current 120V portable cord. It can be locked using a small padlock to deter unauthorized removal during charging. Based directly on customer feedback, a new storage bin for the cord is now located on the left side of the Volt’s rear cargo area, above the load floor, for improved accessibility.

    Excited about the new 2016 Volt? Then have some patience – the car will debut in January at the North American International Auto Show.

    Source: Chevrolet