Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

  • Dodge Durango three-row SUV now comes with Blacktop Appearance Package

    Dodge-Durango-Blacktop_thumbDodge-Durango-Blacktop_651

    Dodge has announced the addition of the popular Blacktop Appearance Package to the award-winning 2014 Durango three-row SUV. Now with the addition of the Durango the package can be found on seven 2014 Dodge models including the Charger, Challenger, Avenger, Dart, Journey and Grand Caravan.

    The main function of the Blacktop Appearance Package is to bring a distinctive, sporty and sinister look to the vehicles that make use of it. It features unique Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, dual rear exhaust with bright tips offering 295 horsepower (217 kW) with the V6 engine and 360 horsepower (265 kW) with the HEMI® V-8 engine, a Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround, Gloss Black side mirrors, Gloss Black exterior badging, black headlamp bezels, body color fascia and moldings, and five options for exterior paint colors. The Blacktop Appearance Package is available on Durango SXT, Limited and R/T models.

    “The rear-wheel-drive based Dodge Durango is already one of a kind. It stands out as the Charger of the three-row SUV segment,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Now with Blacktop Package, customers can make it even more unique, and it’s customized by the factory.”

    Apart from the Blacktop Package, the new 2014 Dodge Durango offers a number of improvements that include a new standard eight-speed automatic transmission, better fuel economy and performance, new LED exterior lighting, an internal 5-inch or 8.4-inch touch screen, a new programmable instrument cluster and a high-definition dual-display Blu-Ray entertainment system.

    The Blacktop Package now applies to the Dodge Durango SXT, Limited and R/T models but there is some differentiation when it comes to the extras included. To the SXT models the Blacktop Package adds Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, dual rear exhaust with bright tips, Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround, Gloss Black side mirrors, Gloss Black badging, black headlamp bezels, and body-color fascias and moldings. Blacktop is available for a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of only USD 1,590 MSRP.

    On Limited models, the Blacktop Package includes all of the above content, plus HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights (DRLs), to complement its premium leather interior, for a starting U.S. MSRP of USD 1,990.

    On the R/T, the Blacktop Package adds Gloss Black 20-inch aluminum wheels, Gloss Black crosshair grille with matching grille surround and Gloss Black badging for a U.S. MSRP of USD 295.

    There’s some difference in the engines too, when it comes to the different versions of the 2014 Durango Blacktop Package. The Dodge Durango SXT Blacktop and Limited Blacktop editions come with the Durango standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and dual exhaust with active intake, a new standard eight-speed automatic transmission and 295 horsepower (217 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque. This engine can also tow up to 6,200 pounds (2814 kilograms) and achieves up to 25 miles per gallon (9.4 liters per 100 km), which means it can cover up to 600 miles (960 km) on a single tank of gasoline.

    The Dodge Durango R/T Blacktop comes with a standard 5.7-liter HEMI® V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower (265 kW) and 390 lb.-ft. (529 Nm) of torque with a best-in-class tow rating of 7,400 pounds (3360 kilograms). In addition to that the engine features the so-called Fuel Saver Technology which can deactivate cylinders. Thus when less power is needed the engine can operate as a standard 4-cylinder engine and when more power is needed it can work as a V8 engine. The fuel economy in the latter case reaches 23 miles per gallon (10.2 liters per 100 km).

    Source: Dodge

  • New Bugatti may be too fast to test

    New-Bugatti-car_thumbNew-Bugatti-car_651

    Bugatti’s new performance car and heir to the Bugatti Veyron has been said to be too fast to successfully test in real life.

    The still unnamed model will appear in 2016 and will likely have a top speed of 286 mph (460 km/h) with a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of just 2.3 seconds if correct computer simulations are to be trusted. The car will be based on a hybrid powertrain and will have the same quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter W16 engine that you can find in the Veyron. The engine is capable of generating about 1500 bhp (1521 horsepower).

    This information comes in excess of what we currently have about the Bugatti Veyron, whose top speed of 268 mph (431 km/h) is already a challenge to prove due to limitations of its Michelin road tires. The problem with tires is that if technology has not advanced that far when the new car appears, the tires used may disintegrate well before reaching the vehicle top speed.

    Autocar road test editor Matt Prior said: “Even though aerodynamic drag increases at the square of speed, if you up the power enough, it’s entirely feasible that Bugatti could find another 18mph (29 km/h) for the taking in the Veyron’s successor. But we’re well into the realms of academia now. Making a road car that can do 286 mph (460 km/h) is one thing; making a road car do it on road tires is rather more difficult.”

    The new vehicle will have a carbon monocoque, like its predecessor and will have seats for two in a highly luxurious cabin that includes all latest connectivity technologies. The heavily revised powertrain receives electric assistance, while drive is channeled to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and multi-plate-clutch four-wheel drive system.

    The upcoming vehicle by Bugatti will be limited; no more than 450 units will be produced.

    Source: Bugatti

  • Vauxhall offers excellent service to van owners

    New-Vauxhall-Vivaro_thumbNew-Vauxhall-Vivaro_651

    Vauxhall UK has started offering premium service to owners of Vauxhall vans in the United Kingdom. The car brand now has over 90 per cent of UK businesses covered with a Premier Van Center available within a 30-munite drive.

    The new Vauxhall centers offer expert diagnostics without the need for an appointment, lead times no longer than three days and a dedicated Premier Van Helpline, thus maximizing mobility and minimizing downtime for your business. In addition to that Vauxhall will collect and deliver vehicles within a 10-mile (five miles for the M25) radius (16 km or 8 km for M25) and offer a courtesy vehicle free of charge. All Premier Van Center sites will carry out Class 7 MOTs and have a 5-tonne lift on-site.

    “This is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to looking after the needs of van customers,” said Rachel Parker, Vauxhall Operations Director.

    Vauxhall’s Premier Service Centers have to meet strict selection criteria. Only sites that can provide sales and service support and meet strict service level requirements can qualify for Premier Van Center status. Premier Van Centers are also listed on Epyx 1link for ease of identification and online service booking requests. Repairs are carried out at fixed labor rates with job sheets completed on the day the work is completed and invoiced within five working days, so no hidden or unexpected surprises. Customers can also take advantage of a while-you-wait option when a repair is expected to be completed on the same day. Once work is complete a 25-point safety check is carried out including all safety enhancements and software updates. Vauxhall even throws in a wash and vac with every annual service and free fitting of wiper blades.

    The new service follows the UK launch of the all-new and British-built Vauxhall Vivaro, which further enhances Vauxhall’s award-winning van range.

    Source: Vauxhall

  • Škoda unveils full specifications and prices for Yeti Monte Carlo

    Skoda-Yeti-Monte-Carlo_thumbSkoda-Yeti-Monte-Carlo_651

    The Czech automaker Škoda Auto has announced full details and pricing for its Yeti Monte Carlo model – a new addition to the compact SUV car range that is full of extras.

    The Monte Carlo addition to the Škoda Yeti shows that the car celebrates the long and successful participation of the Czech brand in global stage rallies. At the same time the Yeti Monte Carlo comes with a long list of design, comfort and convenience features. The vehicle is based on the Yeti SE equipment levels but offers additional extras and features such as a Monte Carlo signature black roof with black detailing on the front grille and spoiler, rear diffuser, door mirrors and 17-inch Origami alloy wheels.

    In addition to all these extras purchasers of the vehicle will get black-tinted front fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with cornering function and dynamic angle control. On the inside the car comes with a three-spoke leather “Supersport” multi-function steering wheel, sports seats with unique Monte Carlo upholstery and exclusive design for the door sills, instrument cluster and floor mats.

    The Yeti Monte Carlo gets powered by a 2.0-liter TDI CR DPF diesel engine with 170 horsepower (125 kW) and it also has a standard 4×4 transmission. You can have the Škoda Yeti Monte Carlo with a six-speed manual or DSG sequential automatic gearbox. In the UK the first version costs GBP 24,390, while the second version sells for GBP 25,490. The manual version achieves 49.6 mpg (UK) or 5.7 liters per 100 km with 149 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 8.4 seconds. The automatic gearbox model offers 44.8 mpg (UK) or 6.3 liters of fuel consumption per 100 km at a cost of 164 grams of carbon dioxide per km and 8.6 seconds of time for reaching 62 mph/100 km from being still.

    Source: Škoda Auto

  • MINI teams with JustPark to make parking easier

    MINI-JustPark_thumbMINI-JustPark_651

    Having a car brings many benefits to your life but in many cases you may find it really hard to find a parking spot. In fact statistics shows worrying facts – motorists waste 106 days of their lives just looking for a spot. There’s light in the tunnel, though – British Motor Corporation (BMC) and its brand MINI have teamed up with the online service JustPark to provide a service that allows drivers to secure a parking spot in advance directly from their dashboards.

    The only thing you have to do now in order to take advantage of the new service is to drive a MINI and then download a special application from the Apple App Store. By using the app, JustPark-registered drivers can find, book and navigate to a parking spot, choosing from more than 100,000 spaces across the United Kingdom.

    This is how the whole thing works – drivers can download and then integrate the app in the vehicle’s navigation system and then they can choose whether to input their final destination or look for a parking spot around them while on the go. The app provides drivers with a number of conventional parking spaces, from car parks and hotels to homes and pubs. In addition to that they can look for location details, pricing and reviews left by previous drivers.

    Once you choose and pay for a parking space you will be navigated to the destination by the vehicle’s navigation system. The best part is that the app has been designed for use while on the go and it has also undergone extensive testing by BMW laboratories in Germany.

    The app is the latest product of the partnership between JustPark and BMW Ventures, the venture capital arm of BMW that invests in startups working to improve mobility in urban areas and took a strategic stake in JustPark – formerly known as ParkatmyHouse – in 2011.

    JustPark founder, Anthony Eskinazi, said: “In 2014, no driver should have to experience the stress and uncertainty of circling the streets for that elusive parking space. JustPark gives drivers the convenience of finding and reserving an affordable parking space in moments. Just as we use apps to order taxis and takeaways, parking is finally being brought out of the dark ages.”

    The MINI will be the first car to enjoy the new service but JustPark expects to be able to offer the service to many more car brands in the near future.

    Source: MINI UK

  • Chevrolet reveals 2015 Colorado pricing

    2015-Chevrolet-Colorado_651

    Chevrolet has announced the price of the 2015 Colorado model – the vehicle’s starting price sits at USD 20,995 and there’s a USD 895 dealer freight charge.

    The standard equipment of the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado includes a 2.5-liter 200-horsepower (147 kW) four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct fuel injection and continuously variable valve timing for strong midrange torque, a six-speed manual transmission, power windows with express up for the driver, a rear-vision camera with dynamic guide lines and a locking tailgate.

    “Colorado is an all-new midsize pickup that offers truck customers great versatility and great value,” said Tony Johnson, Colorado marketing manager. “It will also have strong appeal for people who know they want a truck, but want one that is easier to maneuver in traffic and easier to park at work or at home.”

    Customers who want more can get a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower (224 kW), also with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, a six-speed automatic transmission, 4G LTE with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, Forward Collision Alert and Land Departure Warning, and the GearOn accessory system, a comprehensive solution for organizing and carrying bikes, paddle boards and other equipment. Colorado customers can choose from two cab configurations, extended-cab and crew-cab. Crew-cab Colorados will offer a choice of 5- or 6-foot boxes; extended-cab models come with the 6-foot box.

    Quite naturally the more capable Colorado models cost more. Thus the Colorado LT crew cab with 2WD and a 5-foot box has a starting price, including dealer freight, of USD 27,985 and the Colorado Z71 crew cab 4×4 with the 5-foot box starts at USD 34,990.

    The new Chevrolet Colorado will be available this fall at various Chevrolet dealerships. Fuel economy data and detailed pricing will be available later.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Aston Martin upgrades Vanquish and Rapide S models

    Aston-Martin-Vanquish_thumbAston-Martin-Vanquish_651

    Aston Martin has announced a number of new and exciting technical improvements that will find their way into Vanquish and Rapide S models that belong to the 15 Model Year (15MY). The changes affect performance, fuel consumption and emissions as well as overall driving experience.

    The first major change is that both models now come with the new Touchtronic III eight-speed automatic gearbox – the first time ever that this gearbox is integrated in a transaxle layout. The new gearbox has positive influence on both performance and fuel economy thanks to the efforts of ZF, with which Aston Martin has been partnering to bring the Touchtronic III to the Vanquish and Rapide S.

    Ian Minards, Product Development Director at Aston Martin, explained: “We have a long and successful technical partnership with ZF and so it was a natural step for us to adapt and integrate their world class 8HP transmission into our transaxle layout.”

    “This has been a detailed piece of work involving careful consideration of many technical parameters including gear ratios, software integration and shifting strategies.  This has delivered a significant step change in both vehicle performance and economy whilst preserving the unique Aston Martin V12 driving experience.”

    The new 15MY cars also feature reduced 0-60 mph times – the Vanquish and Rapide S now accelerate to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds (3.8 seconds 0-100 km/h) and 4.2 seconds (4.4 seconds 0-100 km/h), respectively, down from 4.1 seconds for the Vanquish and 4.7 seconds for the Rapide S. The new gearbox and changes in the gear and final drive ratios also allow the cars to feature lower emissions that are now lower by an average of ten per cent – down to 298 g/km for Vanquish and 300 g/km for the Rapide S. Economy is boosted by thirteen per cent (Rapide S) and seven per cent (Vanquish) with the new transmission (US Combined cycle). In addition for the first time both cars can achieve 200 mph (320 km/h) and more. Peak power also rises – the Vanquish now sports 568 bhp (576 hp or 423 kW), while the Rapide S offers 552 bhp (560 hp or 412 kW) of power. Peak torque is also up to 465 lb.-ft. (630 Nm) at 5,500 rpm.

    In addition to all this the new Aston Martin Vanquish and Rapide S take advantage of the latest Bosch Engine Management System. The new system, which delivers more precise engine control and seamlessly communicates with the new gearbox, receives its first application in an Aston Martin that combines the AM29 V12 engine and an automatic gearbox.

    Uprated dampers on the new Vanquish – 15% stiffer at the front and a full 35% stiffer at the rear – improve the dynamic characteristic of the car in line with its significantly enhanced performance. Rapide S, meanwhile, gets uprated larger front brakes. Both cars also benefit from a retuned brake booster and amended rear suspension bushes that are now 20% stiffer than before. There are other minor changes to the two models as well.

    The global market introduction of 15MY sports cars begins in Q3 of 2014, with more details on market-specific pricing and options available in due course.

    Source: Aston Martin

  • GMC announces 2015 Canyon pricing

    GMC-Canyon_thumbGMC-Canyon_651

    GMC has announced the price list for the all-new 2015 Canyon – the new vehicle will cost you USD 21,880 at least and there will be a USD 925 dealer freight charge too.

    “The all-new Canyon provides a one-two punch that customers tell us they’ve been waiting for,” said Canyon Marketing Manager Kenn Bakowski. “Now they can get a premium vehicle in terms of styling, features and technology, with all the inherent capabilities and maneuverability of a mid-size pickup.”

    The starting price of the 2015 GMC Canyon will get you standard equipment that includes a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine with direct injection with 200 horsepower (147 kW) under the hood, LED lighting, four-way power driver’s seat, a CornerStep rear bumper and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

    The more expensive SLE trim level brings more to the table – it starts at USD 27,520 (2WD extended cab) and offers aluminum interior trim, a soft-touch instrument panel and door pads, EZ-lift and lower tailgate, eight-inch diagonal color-touch radio with Intellilink, and OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot with a three-month or three-GB trial (whichever comes first).  A 4WD Canyon SLT crew cab short box model starts at USD 37,875, and includes the 3.6-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower (190 kW), leather-appointed seating, automatic climate control, 18-inch polished cast-aluminum wheels, remote start and an automatic locking rear differential.

    Customers who want more can opt for the more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, a six-speed automatic transmission, an integrated Bose speaker system and the GearOn accessory system that allows you to carry bikes, kayaks and other specialized equipment.

    Canyon customers will have multiple cab and bed configurations to choose from, including extended cab models with a 6-foot 2-inch box, or crew cab models with either the 6-foot 2-inch or a 5-foot 2-inch box. Additionally, every 2015 Canyon comes with Pro Grade Protection, which, in addition to a five-year/100,000-mile (160,000 km) powertrain warranty and three-year/36,000-mile (58,000 km) bumper-to-bumper warranty, includes two years or 24,000 miles (32,000 km) – whichever comes first – of standard scheduled maintenance.

    The new vehicle will be available for purchase this fall. Fuel consumption and detailed pricing will be announced at a later date.

    Source: GMC

  • Rolls-Royce announces a new model is on the way

    Rolls-Royce-Logo_thumbRolls-Royce-Logo_651

    The manufacturer of ultra-luxury vehicles Rolls-Royce has announced that it is working on a new Rolls-Royce model that will reach the market sometime in 2016.

    The car is intended to follow the success of the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Ghost and Wraith and will come with a chassis that will underline the contemporary, graceful and sensuous styling of the marquee, yet take the Rolls-Royce brand into the future. As always the upcoming model will also blend Rolls-Royce luxury with excellent and engaging driving experience.

    The new development was confirmed by none other but the CEO of Rolls Royce Torsten Müller-Ötvös, who said, “I am truly delighted to confirm today the development of our new model which will open an exciting new chapter in the great story of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. We are currently developing an exciting and thoroughly contemporary interpretation of a pinnacle drophead tourer which will introduce even more discerning men and women to Rolls-Royce ownership.”

    The Chairman of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Peter Schwarzenbauer commented: “The announcement of a new Rolls-Royce model is always a seminal moment in the automobile industry. When it arrives in 2016, this elegant and sensuous new car will build on the success of our current models and will play a key part in fulfilling Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ commitment to long-term sustainable growth.”

    The new Rolls-Royce car currently undergoes prototype testing before it enters the next production stage.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • Ford to replace Motorcraft brakes for free

    Ford-Motor-Company-Logo_thumbFord-Motor-Company-Logo_651

    Ford Motor Company has announced a new point-of-sale program at Ford and Lincoln dealerships and Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centers that provides users and owners of Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles with no-cost replacement of Motorcraft brake pads, purchased as of July 1, 2014. The program applies to certain passenger and commercial vehicles.

    “This program reflects our commitment to providing customers with an excellent ownership experience regardless of the age of their vehicle,” said Frederiek Toney, vice president, Ford Motor Company and president, Ford Customer Service. “Plus, when you purchase Motorcraft parts at a Ford or Lincoln dealer, or a Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center, you know you’re getting the right parts installed by the right people. Motorcraft parts are the officially recommended parts for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles, and these technicians are factory-trained and certified to service our products.”

    Motorcraft brake pads that are worn down to less than three millimeters are eligible for no-cost replacement as long as the customer owns the vehicle. Customers must still pay the labor and installation costs for replacing the brakes, as well as the cost of other parts needed to return the brake system to the original operating condition. This offer, called “Lifetime Brake Pad Guarantee,” applies to Motorcraft brakes replaced on any Ford, Lincoln or Mercury passenger vehicle and certain commercial vehicles. In addition, in order to qualify for replacement brakes, customers will need to present their service advisor with their repair order or vehicle identification number.

    Taxi, limousine, postal, police, towing, emergency and racing vehicles are not eligible for this program.

    Source: Ford Motor Company

  • Jaguar Land Rover to show three new models at 2014 Pebble Beach

    Jaguar-Range-Rover-Sport-SVR_thumbJaguar-Range-Rover-Sport-SVR_651

    Jaguar Land Rover has announced three new product debuts that will happen at the Pebble Beach Automotive weekend – the company will present the new 550 horsepower (404 kW) Range Rover Sport SVR (global debut), the US version of the Jaguar F-TYPE Project 7 and the prototype of the new Jaguar Lightweight E-Type, of which just six cars will be built.

    All three vehicles are from Jaguar Land Rover’s newly created Special Operations division which, under the leadership of Managing Director, John Edwards, will focus on designing and engineering high specification vehicles, bespoke commissions, heritage products and branded goods.

    Perhaps, the most interesting model of the three is the F-TYPE Project 7, which is an all-aluminum, fully road-legal, two-seated roadster that features bespoke carbon-fiber aerodynamic aids. F-TYPE Project 7 is based on the 2014 Jaguar F-TYPE and features a Jaguar D-type inspired fairing, as this year marks the 60th anniversary of the iconic Jaguar D-type. The all-new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe will also be on display at the Monterey Jet Center as part of the Petersen Automotive Museum’s World’s Greatest Sports Coupes Exhibit.

    At Pebble Beach Jaguar Land Rover will also present its full model line-up including the high-performance Range Rover Sport SVR, the Range Rover Long-wheelbase and the Range Rover Evoque Autobiography Black. Some event guests will also have the chance to drive current model year lineups including the Range Rover Supercharged, the Range Rover Sport Supercharged and others.

    Source: Jaguar Land Rover

  • Aston Martin to present 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster at Pebble Beach

    Aston-Martin-2015-V12_thumbAston-Martin-2015-V12_651

    The famous luxury car maker Aston Martin has announced that its new 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will make its global debut at the Pebble Beach Automotive Week, which starts on August 14.

    The upcoming Aston Martin vehicle will deliver sporting agility and an enviable sports soundtrack thanks to its naturally aspirated Aston Martin AM28 6.0-liter V12 engine that delivers 565 horsepower (415 kW). Thanks to this engine and state-of-the-art Bosch engine management the new car can reach 201 mph (323 km/h), accelerating from rest to 60 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.9 seconds. When released, the new Aston Martin 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will be the car company’s most potent, fastest and fastest-accelerating series production roadster to date.

    The Aston Martin 2015 V12 Vantage S Roadster will be accompanied by the new Design Prototype 100 (DP-100), which makes a North American debut. Developed in six months time, the DP-100 is a new virtual-only GT racer. The upcoming car looks beautiful and will be available to owners of Gran Turismo 6 to download; later this month it will be shown as a full-sized hand-crafted model at Monterey.

    The DP-100 will come with a powerful twin-turbo V12 engine that delivers 800 HP (588 kW). In addition to that the prototype provides an exceptional level of detail with a fully functional suspension system and state-of-the-art electronics. The DP-100 will be exclusively available for viewings to customers and invited guests at the Aston Martin Estate (14-16 August) where it will be joined by the V12 Vantage S Roadster which will also lead the marque’s presence at Quail: A Motorsports Gathering (15 August).

    Source: Aston Martin