Victor Ivanov – Page 12 – Automobiles Review

2015 Honda Odyssey – US Price $28,975

2015 Honda Odyssey is now available on the market with a starting Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,975. The MPV was the top selling minivan with individual (retail) car buyers in the U.S. in 2013 and in the first five months of 2014. The study based on new-vehicle registration statistics from IHS Automotive.

2015 Odyssey comes with a number of upgrades including the acclaimed in-vehicle vacuum cleaner, the HondaVAC^™, featured on the Odyssey Touring Elite. Other upgrades designed to meet the needs of active families included the addition of a standard 6-speed automatic transmission resulting in class-leading EPA fuel-economy ratings, enhanced safety equipment and connectivity features.

The engine range includes a 3.5 liter V6 – 248HP (182 kW) at 5,700RPM and 338Nm (250 lb-ft) at 4,800RPM. The EPA fuel-economy ratings are 19 mpg US in city and 28 mpg US in highway.

There are five trim levels – LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite. A keyless entry system with push button start on EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite allows the driver to approach the vehicle, open the door and start the engine – all without touching a key.

The interior features high-grade meter illumination and interior lighting, chrome-trimmed instrument dials and door handles, an available 7” touch-screen, and an ideally positioned DVD player for the available Rear Entertainment System.

TRIM	MSRP¹	EPA MPG³ (city/highway/combined)
Odyssey LX	$28,975	19/28/22
Odyssey EX	$32,275	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L	$35,775	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with RES	$37,375	19/28/22
Odyssey EX-L with Navi	$37,775	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring	$42,030	19/28/22
Odyssey Touring Elite	$44,600	19/28/22

Source: Honda

August 4, 2014

Acura TLX GT Race Car

Acura Motorsports has unveiled the new 2015 Acura TLX GT Race Car in Pirelli World Challenge competition. It held at American Honda’s “home” circuit, the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, in the hands of RealTime Racing owner/driver Peter Cunningham.

Cunningham has driven the Acura in a pair of Pirelli World Challenge events during a doubleheader race weekend. The Pirelli World Challenge series supports with the Honda Indy 200 Verizon IndyCar Series weekend at Mid-Ohio.

“We’re excited to debut the Acura TLX GT race car in front of our ‘hometown’ audience of associates from the many Honda facilities in central Ohio,” commented Art St. Cyr, President of Honda Performance Development and Vice President, Auto Operations, American Honda.

“The competition in the Pirelli World Challenge is fierce, including many of the luxury makes the TLX will compete with on the sales floor. Acura has never shied away from a challenge. Instead, we seek it out, both on-track and in the marketplace.”, he added.

Developed from the production Acura TLX by HPD and RealTime Racing, the Acura TLX GT comes with HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge competition. The race car is powered by a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed by HPD from the production TLX. The TLX GT Race Car also has all-wheel drive, as found in Acura’s SH-AWD system.

Source: Acura

August 4, 2014

Skoda Extends Monte Carlo Line-up

Skoda has unveiled an extended line-up of Monte Carlo Special Editions. Due to high customer demands, the automaker will include Citigo Monte Carlo, Yeti Monte Carlo, Rapid Spaceback Monte Carlo, which are expected to hit the market in autumn 2014.

The small Citigo special edition model comes with new body graphics, some black exterior accents and a set of 15” alloy wheels fitted with corresponding tires. There are also tinted windows and a sport-tuned suspension reducing the ride height by 15 mm.

The interior boasts a leather sports steering wheel and a black roof liner. A set of new Monte Carlo seat covers and special trim elements are also available. Last, but not least are the two-tone floor mats.

The Yeti Monte Carlo boasts bi-xenon headlights, modified front and rear bumpers and 17” alloy wheels. There are also sport seats, stainless steel pedals and Monte Carlo trim elements. The special edition Yeti is based on the Ambition trim level and is available with three petrol and three diesel engines.

The Rapid Monte Carlo is coming with similar upgrades to the Citigo.

Source: Skoda

August 4, 2014

2015 Audi Q3 – US Price $32,500

Audi US has announced the pricing of the small-crossover Q3. The entry-level model Premium Plus with FWD is priced from $32,500 and the top-of-range Prestige Quattro is $38,500. The stylish Q3 comes with a rich standard equipment offering good value for money. It also offers an excellent balance of agility and functionality.

The engine range includes a 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI with 6-speed Tip-Tronic transmission – 211HP (155 kW) at 5,000RPM and 300Nm (222 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,800RPM. 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h (144 mph). It is able to cover 100 km with just 6.4 liters (on highway) – 36.8 mpg US or 10.2 liters (city cycle) – 23.0 mpg US. The curb weight is 1,640 kg (3,620 lbs).

The exterior of the 2015 Q3 boasts a low roof line and wraparound tailgate, along with Audi xenon plus and LED daytime running headlamps as well as LED taillights standard. The optional Sport package which includes sport seats, shift paddles and Audi drive select adds to the dynamic character of the Q3.

The interior features 60/40 split folding rear seats that make 48.2 cu-ft of cargo volume when folded down. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control, available power tailgate and interior LED lighting round out the interior. The Audi advanced key provides keyless access as well as keyless start/stop function.

As an options is available MMI Navigation plus with voice control and a 7.0“ display. The MMI Navigation Plus features the award-winning Audi connect infotainment system (included in Prestige model), which includes in-vehicle Wi-Fi connectivity for up to eight wireless devices for passengers. A 14-speaker, 465 WATT Bose Surround Sound System is also part of the Prestige model offering to satisfy audiophile needs.

Audi Q3 MSRP* excluding transportation, taxes, title:

Audi Q3 Premium Plus, FWD: $32,500
Audi Q3 Premium Plus, quattro: $34,600
Audi Q3 Prestige, FWD: $36,400
Audi Q3 Prestige, quattro $38,500

*transportation charge is $925

Source: Audi

August 1, 2014

Citroen DS3 Cabrio DStyle by Benefit Special Edition – Price £18,745

Citroen and Benefit Cosmetics has released another special edition model. This time based on the DS3 Cabrio Dstyle VTi 120 coming with a number of nice upgrades. The limited edition model is already available on the market with pricing starting from £18,745.

The exterior boasts a Polar White paint finish, with a black fabric roof and Fuchsia Pink touches for the door mirrors and wheel centre caps. There is also a “Gabbi’s Head” logo on the “Shark Fin” B-Pillars and a Benefit badge on the rear, also in Fuchsia Pink.

Other highlights include a set of 17” Bellone black alloy wheels, automatic digital air conditioning, automatic illumination of headlamps, automatic rain sensitive wipers, electrically heated and folding door mirrors, electrochrome rear view mirror, interior mood lighting and a front central armrest.

The interior features “Stay Flawless” theme coming with bespoke black velour floor mats with Fuchsia edging and an embroidered Fuchsia Benefit logo. The dashboard, air vent surrounds and gear stick cap are finished in gloss white trim, with Benefit’s trademark ‘Stay Flawless’ black and white polka dot design on the upper part of the dashboard. The key fob also features the ‘Gabbi’s head’ logo, with a Fuchsia Pink insert.

Source: Citroen

August 1, 2014

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman [leak images]

Telegraaf has published several leak images of the all-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman. The super-luxurious limousine will be the top-of-range model and will obviously substitute the famous Maybach models. The model dates from February 2013, when the German manufacturer has registered the drawings in the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The Pullman model is practically a stretched S-Class with an overall length of whopping 6.4 meters (252“), which is longer than the large Maybach 62 (6.2 meters). The new Mercedes-Benz limousine will have a 2+2+2 seating arrangement with the four rear seats facing each other. They will be separated from the front ones by a privacy glass.

Of course, an armored version is also planned. It will carry presidents and prime-ministers as well as wealthy businessmen. The armored Pullman will be at least 5,300 kg (11,684 lbs). As you may suggest, the upcoming armored Mercedes-Benz S-Class Pullman will have a price tag of $1,270,000.

The all-new S-Class Pullman will be introduced sometime in 2015. Mercedes-Benz is also planning an extra-long wheelbase in the face of S-Class Maybach, but this is not official. Other interesting model which can face production is an S-Class Cabriolet based on the recently unveiled S-Class Coupe.

Stay tuned for more!

August 1, 2014

Best-Tuning BMW 4-Series 435i xDrive

Best-Tuning has announced their latest project based on BMW 4-Series 435i xDrive. The sports coupe comes with styling and performance upgrades as well. The ride height is lowered and the Beamer has received new set of enormous wheels.

The new wheels are provided by Schmidt Revolution – 8.5J x 20“ at the front fitted with 235/30 R20 and 10J x 20“ with 275/25 R20 tires on the rear axle. The complete set starts from €2,600 as the price varies depending on tire choice.

The stance is further improved by KW coilovers with pricing starting from €1,100 depending on the variant from 1 to 3. The new suspension improves not only the handling, but the comfort as well, because it offers a number of settings.

The performance package boosts the 3.0 liter Twinpower-turbocharged petrol engine to 365HP (268 kW) – an increase of 57HP thanks to an ECU re-map (nothing is mentioned about torque increase, but it will be around 100Nm). The price is just €1,299 – definitely a good value for money. Last, but not least Best-Tuning offers a complete sports exhaust system delivering epic soundtrack and of course slight power increase. No words about its price.

Source: Best-Tuning

August 1, 2014

Carlex Design BMW Z4 E89 – Awesome!

Carlex Design has published several nice pictures of a heavily modified BMW Z4 E89. The stylish roadster received a unique look – exterior and interior by the tuning company. The new vision is truly impressive and even hardcore BMW fans (like me) like it, a lot.

The inspiration for the project is taken from a sub-genre of science fiction. The tuning specialists from Poland created a stunning combination of brass and Alcantara with different types of dark leather. The roll bars behind the seats as well as the door handles, transmission tunnel and some sections of the dashboard received brass treatment, while the seats and the steering wheel are finished in fine dark leather with contrasting stitches.

The exterior boasts a complete matte black foiling combined with a copper finish for the roof and the new enormous alloy wheels.

No words about performance modifications, but the heavily tuned Z4 by Carlex is enough impressive even without hundreds of horsepower under the long front hood. Still, the small roadster is pretty quick even in its least powerful version – sDrive18i powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine – 156HP (115 kW) and 200Nm (148 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h (138 mph).

Enjoy the pictures!

Source: Carlex Design

July 31, 2014

Manhart Racing BMW X4 F26 – 375HP and 740Nm

Manhart Racing has unveiled their tuning package for the all-new BMW X4 xDrive35d. The compact SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) comes with a significant power boost and improved stance.

The 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged diesel originally produces – 313HP (230 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. The performance package boosts the engine to 375HP (276 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque, which is exactly the same torque like the three-turbocharged 3.0 liter diesel found in M50d models.

2014 BMW X4 xDrive35d does 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, so the new time will be around 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). However, Manhart didn’t release any official performance data.

The ride height is lowered thanks to a set of sport springs and the stance is further improved by huge Concave One 21“ wheels finished in silver or black.

BMW has recently announced the new X4, which is available only with diesel engines – xDrive20d; xDrive30d and xDrive35d. The entry-level model is available from £36,590 OTR. The all-new 2014 X4 combines all unique features of the BMW X family with the stylish elegance of a classical coupe. For now the only rival of the model is the recently unveiled Porsche Macan.

Source: Manhart Racing

July 31, 2014

McChip-DKR mc8xx Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG

McChip-DKR has unveiled their latest tuning project based on Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG. The name of the project is mc8xx and it includes styling and performance upgrades as well.

The 6.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 originally develops 457HP ((336 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed SpeedShift MCT transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, which is a bit faster than BMW M3 and the fuel consumption is 12.0 L/100 km. After a complete supercharger system, the engine produces whopping 830HP (610 kW) and over 900Nm (667 lb-ft) of torque. The result is thanks to a big oil cooler, XXL water cooler and a bigger water pump for the charge air system.

The exterior boasts a complete wide body kit of the corresponding special model of Black Series. It includes aggressive front and rear bumpers, a new front hood, a pair of side skirts and several wings. All parts are manufactured from carbon fiber including flaps, side mirrors, front splitters and the rear diffusor. Other highlights include front and rear lamps from the W204-Facelift model.

The sports car is fitted with OZ-Racing Superleggera rims – 10J x 19“ at the front and 11J x 19“ at the rear fitted with adequate performance tires. A KW Clubsport chassis is also present as well as high performance brake discs and stopping pads. Last, but not least is an LSD (limited slip differential) by Drexler.

The mc8xx package comes with MOT-certificate and is now available to order.

Source: McChip-DKR

July 31, 2014

K.MAN Audi R8 V8 Bi-Turbo GTK, GTK S and GTK RS

Chiptrick has unveiled their latest project based on Audi R8 4.2 liter V8. The name of the project is K.MAN and it is available in three powerful versions – GTK, GTK S and GTK RS. There are also some styling improvements as well.

Stage I – GTK – boosts the engine to 590HP (434 kW), which is an increase of 170HP compared to factory’s power. The GTK weighs just 1,680 kg (3,704 lbs), so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 2.85 kg/HP.

Stage II – GTK S – offers 640HP (471 kW), a power boost of 220HP. The power-to-weight ratio is 2.64 kg/HP.

Stage III – GTK RS – has whopping 750HP (551 kW), an increase of 330HP. The power-to-weight ratio is impressive 2.27 kg/HP.

No words about acceleration 0-100 km/h, but it is around 3.0 seconds. Still, Chiptrick revealed information for 0-200 km/h times – GTK 11.9 seconds; GTK S 11.4 seconds and GTK RS 10.6 seconds.

Other highlights include Club sport chassis frame and a reinforced brake system for the top-of-range GTK RS. There is also a manual gearbox for all performance stages.

Optionally, K.MAN also has a wide range of carbon and GFK parts for those who prefer a little extravagance, and this allows K.MAN to offer individual identities from “cautiously different” up until the radical “DTM looks”.

Source: K.MAN

July 31, 2014

Toyota GT86 sets Guiness World Drift Record – 144.1 km [video]

Harald Müller managed to set a new Guinness World Record for longest vehicle drift in a Toyota GT 86. The previous holder was Johan Schwartz – BMW Performance Center Instructor, who managed to drift the new M5 F10 for 82.520 km (51.278 miles). Harald Müller has achieved whopping 144.126 km (89.55 miles).

The record attempt was made in Samsun, Turkey on July 15^th at an event organized by local board of Youth and Sports. The course measured 235.5 meters, where Müller did 612 laps in 2 hours, 25 minutes and 18 seconds with a 2012 Toyota GT 86.

The lightweight RWD car is powered 2.0 liter boxer engine delivering 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque. It also features a rear spoiler, 17” light alloy wheels, chrome-finished dual exhaust tailpipes and a signature “T”-mesh grille. That T motif is repeated in the shape of the rear fog light, set centrally between the tailpipes.

At the video below you can see, that the GT 86 didn’t go all the time with a proper drift (sideways). Instead, the vehicle was going straight several times and stopped for a turn. We believe that the record should be a continuous drift without any stops or huge corrections. Still, Guinness admits the record, so it is official.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrHDUkQZry4

Source: Toyota

July 31, 2014

Author: Victor Ivanov