Victor Ivanov – Page 104 – Automobiles Review

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – UK Price £62,650

Mercedes-Benz UK has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 S-Class. The super-luxurious saloon starts from £62,650 OTR for the entry level model – S 350 BlueTEC SE. The price can go up to £88,130 for the top-of-range S 500 L AMG. There are also rumors that the S-Class Pullman will replace Maybach and the pricing will start from more than £170,000.

Additional new equipment for the S-Class includes Magic Vision Control, the innovative wash/wipe system that applies washer fluid directly in front of the wiper blades to minimise waste and obstruction to the driver, enhanced AirMATIC full air suspension system with continuously adaptive damping control delivering a composed ride while retaining the ability to lower at speed (by 10 mm at 70 mph and a further 10 mm at over 100 mph) or rise by 30mm should it be required during low speed manoeuvres, and COMAND Online NTG 5 – the latest generation of telematics – all as standard.

The Magic Body Control suspension system debuts on the new S-Class – an option on the S 500 (£4,340). Linked to the new Road Surface Scan system, Magic Body Control uses a stereo camera located on the top edge of the windscreen to scan the road up to 15-metres ahead, allowing it to model a precise image of the road surface.

Three different seat packages are available in the rear – ranging from three seats finished in high quality leather to two individual seats complete with the ability seats to recline to an angle of 43.5 degrees. Furthermore, the seats can, if desired, simulate a hot stone massage for even greater comfort and the armrests can be heated.

The options list also include Burmester 1,540 WATT 3D surround sound system with 24 speakers for £6,430 and Air-Balance Package for an additional £360.

Technical Specifications

		S 350 BlueTEC	S 350 BlueTEC L	S 400 Hybrid L	S 500 L
Capacity	cc	2,987	2,987	3,498	4,663
Arrangement/cylinders/valves		V/6/24	V/6/24	V/6/24	V/8/32
Power	hp at rpm	258/3,600	258/3,600	306 + 27/6,500	455/5, 250-5,500
Torque	Nm at rpm	620/1, 600-2,400	620/1, 600-2,400	370/3, 500-5,250	700/1, 800-3,500
Acceleration 0-62 mph	sec	6.8	6.8	6.8	4.8
Top speed (electronically limited)	mph	155	155	155	155
Kerb weight	kg	1,955	1,975	1,945	2,015
Perm. gross vehicle weight	kg	2,655	2,690	2,630	2,730
Boot capacity	l	510	510	510	530
Turning circle	m	11.9	12.3	12.3	12.3
Combined fuel consumption	mpg	51.4	50.4	44.8	31.7
CO₂ 18” alloy wheels	g/km	146	148	147	–
CO₂ 19” alloy wheels	g/km	151	154	153	–
CO₂ 19” AMG alloy wheels	g/km	151	154	153	207
CO₂ 20” AMG alloy wheels	g/km	155	158	159	213

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 26, 2013

Heico Sportiv Volvo V40 T5 HPC – 350HP and 510Nm

After the revealing of the “High Performance Concept” based on the Volvo S80 T6 at the Las Vegas SEMA Show, Heico Sportiv has unveiled their latest project based on Volvo V40 T5.

The V40 T5 HPC is powered by a 2.5 liter five-cylinder turbocharged petrol boosted to 350 HP (257 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft), which is an increase of 96HP and 150Nm. The result is thanks to a number of upgrades including new exhaust system, turbocharger, charge-air system and intercooler. There is also a water-ethanol injection system. 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 265 km/h (164 mph).

The sports hatchback rolls enormous 19” alloy wheels fitted with 235/35 R19 ContiForceContact cup tires. Behind them, there are 6-piston calipers with 370mm perforated discs. The ride is lowered with 30 mm thanks to a sports suspension.

Other upgrades include a full body kit, a matte toxic green film for the exterior and lateral black decorative stripes. The interior boasts Recaro sport seats, a sport steering wheel with fixed paddle shifters, Alcantara-wrapped handbrake and gearshift, aluminum pedals and green stitching

Source: Heico Sportiv

June 25, 2013

BMW 4-Series 435i M Package – US Model

Bimmertoday.de has published several nice pictures of a 2014 BMW 4-Series 435i F32 with ///M Sport Package. The premium coupe was spotted in Freising, 35 km north of Munich.

The model will be positioned above the Sportline and will come with different front and rear aprons, bigger alloy wheels and some interior upgrades like sports front seats and steering wheel.

The F32 435i is powered by a 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 300HP (224 kW) and 406Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seocnds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The model is priced from $46,925, but there is a cheaper version – 428i with 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 245HP (180 kW) and 350Nm (259 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 428i has a price tag of $41,425.

xDrive is available as an option and it will boost the price with another $2,000.

Source: BMW

June 25, 2013

Jaguar C-X75 – A Prototype State-of-the-art Hypercar

Jaguar has published several images and information about C-X75 prototype. The plug-in hybrid hyper car was originally slated to go into limited production, but we doubt in that information.However, C-X75 will be powered by a 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol with 500HP (372 kW) and two electric motors with 390HP (290 kW). This makes a combined power of around 850HP (633 kW), which is enough to accelerate 0-160 km/h (0-100 mph) in less than 6 seconds. The top speed is going to be 354 km/h (220 mph).The model also has an electric only range of approximately 40 miles (64 km).Probably, the C-X75 will not go into series production, but some details will be used for future Jaguar models.

June 25, 2013

2014 BMW X5 F15 – US Price $53,725

BMW US has announced the pricing of the all-new 2014 X5 (F15).

The entry level model –sDrive35i RWD (rear-wheel drive) starts from just $53,725 (including $925 destination charge). Next in the price list is the same model, but with xDrive (AWD), which is priced from $56,025.

Both of them are powered by a TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 300HP (224 kW) at 5,800RPM and 406 Nm (300 lb-ft) at just 1,200RPM.

The diesel variant – xDrive35d starts from $57,525, while the top-of-range xDrive50i is a lot more expensive – $69,125.

Newly-standard equipment for the X5 includes, but is not limited to, BMW’s Auto Start-Stop system, BMW’s iDrive4.2 Navigation System with Touchpad, 10 years of BMW Assist eCall service, 10 years of BMW TeleService, BMW Apps, 40-20-40 split-folding rear seat, and now standard Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering.

BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive can be complemented by Dynamic Performance Control as part of the optional Dynamic Handling Package. The Dynamic Handling Package also includes Active Roll Stabilization providing an additional edge to the X5’s sporty handling attributes as well as Dynamic Damper Control and a rear-axle air suspension.

Adaptive M suspension, available as part of M Sport, also includes Dynamic Damper Control and rear air suspension with more sports-oriented suspension tuning.

Source: BMW

June 25, 2013

2013 Honda Civic Mugen – Sport and Driving pleasure

Mugen has unveiled a new styling program for the 9^th generation Honda Civic. The 2013 Civic Mugen is designed to emphasize the car’s sporty characteristics.

The aerodynamics package consists of a new front and rear bumpers, a pair of side skirts and a prominent rear wing. There is also a body-color “sports” grille, Mugen badging and different sets of 17” alloy wheels.

The sports silencer tuned exclusively for the CIVIC can not only contribute to excellent in design of CIVIC but also satisfy the customers expecting sporty driving.

The styling accessories will go on sale soon, but nothing is mentioned about the pricing.

Source: Mugen

June 25, 2013

2014 Cadillac XTS V6 Twin-Turbo – US Price $63,020

Cadillac has announced the pricing of the 2014 XTS V6 Twin-Turbo, which is producing 410HP (306 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. The high-performance luxury sedan starts from $63,020 packed with Vsport trim level.

“The addition of the new Cadillac Twin Turbo expands and elevates the XTS luxury sedan. “This is a compelling enhancement to what is already one of the most technically advanced sedans in our history.” commented Bob Ferguson, vice president Global Cadillac.

Pricing for the regular 2014 XTS starts at $45,525, including destination fees, unchanged from 2013, with standard equipment including the 3.6L V6 engine that makes 306 hp, CUE, intelligent brake assist and Magnetic Ride Control.

Three option packages are available: Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections.

V6 3.6 litre Twin Turbo:

All-new cylinder block casting
Strengthened connecting rods
Machined, domed aluminum pistons with top steel ring carrier for greater strength
10.2:1 compression ratio
Patented, integrated charge air cooler system with low-volume air ducts
Two turbochargers producing more than 12 pounds of boost (80 kPa)
Vacuum-actuated wastegates with electronic control valves
All-new direct injection fuel system
Tuned air inlet and outlet resonators, aluminum cam covers and other features that contribute to quietness and smoothness.

Source: Cadillac

June 24, 2013

ABT Audi AS4 Avant 3.0 TFSI – 380HP and 500Nm

ABT Sportsline has presented their latest project based on the 2013 Audi A4 3.0 TFSI. The name of the project is AS4 and the family touring car comes with both – styling and performance modifications.

The 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 has 380HP (279 kW) and 500Nm (370 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of whopping 108HP and 100Nm. There is no acceleration data, but with all that power, the AS4 will accelerate 0-100 km/h in around 5.5 seconds and the top speed is no less than 250 km/h (155 mph).

ABT Audi AS4 comes with complete aerodynamics package including a new front spoiler, fender inserts and side skirts. There is also a rear spoiler, rear skirt and 4-pipe exhaust system.

The stance is improved thanks to a set of ABT heigh-adjustable coilovers. The new suspension is a combination of maximum comfort with optimum handling.

Sets of different wheels are also available – ER-C, CR and DR – available in 19” or 20” sizes.

Source: ABT

June 24, 2013

BMW 8-Series [render] – Based on Gran Lusso Coupe

Autoprojecoes has published a nice render picture of modern BMW 8-Series. The project is based on the recently announced Gran Lusso Coupe Concept.

The premium manufacturer is probably going to prepare a direct rival of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe. The Gran Lusso Coupe Concept was exhibited at the last month’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The car really impressed the public, so it is a perfect platform for an eventual 8-Series. BMW 8-Series E31 (1989–1999) was powered by V8 and V12 petrol engines and was a real sports car capable of doing 300 km/h (186 mph).

Of course, the future 8-Series will be probably a lot more power and fast than its predecessor.

Stay tuned!

June 24, 2013

2013 Kia Pro cee’d GT – UK Price £19,995

Kia UK has announced the pricing of the all-new 2013 Pro Ceed GT. It starts from just £19,995 for the entry level pro_cee’d GT and goes up to £23,995 for the GT 1^st Edition model.

2013 Kia Pro Ceed GT is powered by a 1.6 liter turbocharged GDI with 201HP (150 kW) at 6,000RPM and and 265Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). It averages 38.2 mpg with CO₂ emission of 171 g/km.

There are two standard trim levels (GT and GT Tech), while the 1^st Edition will be available in just 500 units (50 of them for UK).

The GT comes with a full aggressive body kit, a dual sports exhaust system and “ice-cube” LED DRLs. Other highlights include red brake calipers and a set of 18” graphite grey alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

The interior boasts Recaro seats, black headlining and some glossy black trim elements.

The GT Tech adds 7” touchscreen with with SAT NAV system, a reversing camera, heated front seats and steering wheel, Stop/Start function, rain-sensor, a dual-zone air conditioning and auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

1^st Edition adds high-gloss black inserts on the alloy wheels, “GT” illuminated sill scuff plates with edition numbering, sliding electric sunroof with automatic roller blind, red ambient lightning and front footwell illumination.

There are three available colors: Track Red, Fusion White and Phantom Black for GT and GT Tech, while the 1^st Edition comes exclusively in Fusion White.

TECHNICAL FIGURES

Performance & Economy	GT	GT Tech	GT 1^st Edition
Power (bhp)	201 @ 6,000rpm
Torque (Nm / (lb/ft))	265 / (195) @ 1,750 to 4,500rpm
0 – 60 mph (seconds)	7.4
Top Speed (mph)	143
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)	171
VED Band	H
Combined Economy (mpg)	38.2

Dimensions & Weights	GT	GT Tech	GT 1^st Edition
Length (mm)	4,310
Width (mm, exc. mirrors)	1,780
Height (mm)	1,430
Wheelbase (mm)	2,650
Track – Fr./Rear (mm)	1,545 / 1,553
Overhang – Fr./Rear (mm)	900 / 760
Min Kerb Weight (kg)	1,359
Max Kerb Weight (kg)	1,448
Boot vol. (l, VDA, min/max)	380 / 1,225

PRICING

Version	Price (OTR)
pro_cee’d ‘GT’	£19,995
pro_cee’d ‘GT Tech’	£22,495
pro_cee’d ‘GT 1^st Edition’	£23,995

Source: Kia

June 24, 2013

ABT 2013 Volkswagen Golf VII GTD – 210HP and 430Nm

ABT has announced their tuning package for the 2013 Volkswagen Golf VII GTD. The tuning company turns the highly-efficient diesel into a hot hatchback.

ABT Sportsline wants to underscore the dynamic look of the Golf GTD and has equipped it, like its predecessors, with Bavarian extras: customised aerodynamic elements are just as much part of it as is a powerful and dependable uprating.

The aerodynamics package includes a new front spoiler, front grille, a pair of modified side skirts and trunk lid spoiler. There are also headlight covers and mirror covers. Last, but not least are the four-pipe exhaust and rear skirt insert.

The 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel is boosted to 210HP (155 kW) and 430Nm (319 lb-ft), which is an increase of 26HP and 50Nm.

ABT also offers different sets of ER-C or DR 18” and 19” alloy wheels fitted with proper tires.

Source: ABT

June 24, 2013

Switzer ClubSport Nissan GT-R – US Price $29,900

Switzer Performance has announced they latest aftermarket program one of the best cars in the world – Nissan GT-R.

The kit will turn the sports car into “the most track-focused Nissan GT-R” – a combination between Ultimate Street Edition mixed with other upgrades developed over the years.

The price for the package is $29,900 and for this amount of money you will get a complete aerodynamics package – a rear wing, front splitter and hood (all made from carbon fiber) , track suspension and big brake system including on-nano brake pad compound.

Other upgrades include composite racing seats, as well as track-designed Toyo R888 tires.

Source: Switzer

June 21, 2013

Author: Victor Ivanov