Victor Ivanov – Page 16 – Automobiles Review

TAG Motorsports BMW M4 Coupe

2014 BMW M4 Coupe is already available on the market and a lot of tuning companies presented their tuning variants for the sports car. TAG Motorsports also unveiled their tuning program for the highly-appreciated vehicle.

The main highlight is the set of enormous 20” light alloy wheels finished in a nice gold paint and wrapped with ultra-low profile performance tires. The tuning company also offers different designs of those wheels and pricing is available upon request.

2014 BMW M4 Coupe comes with a newly-developed 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder engine delivering – 431HP (317 kW) at 5,500RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,850RPM. The engine is connected to a speed manual gearbox as standard or optional 7-speed M DCT. 0-100 km/h in 4.3 (4.1) seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) or 300 km/h (186 mph) with ///M Driver’s package. Still, the combined fuel consumption is just 8.3 liters / 100 km.

As we recently discovered, the engine is even more powerful than the official data. It delivers around 480HP (353 kW) and 650Nm (481 lb-ft) of torque, which is 50HP and 100Nm more than stated. Probably, the main reason for the official data is tax-evading, but that obviously doesn’t bother anyone.

Source: TAG Motorsports

July 21, 2014

BMW X5 F15 M50d vs Range Rover Sport – Drag [video]

Here is an interesting test made from Cars.co.za between BMW X5 F15 M50d and the latest Range Rover Sport Supercharged. Although, there is a huge power gap between the two vehicles, it is quite fascinating to see them in a drag race.

2014 BMW X5 F15 M50d is powered by the world’s most powerful diesel – 3.0 liter three-turbocharged with 381HP (280 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission sending the power through xDrive AWD. 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). What is more, the big SAV is able to achieve 42.2 mpg UK – 6.7 liters / 100 km with CO2 emissions of 177 g/km.

The 2014 Range Rover Sport Supercharged comes with a 5.0 liter supercharged V8 engine – 510HP (375 kW) and 625Nm (463 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The average fuel consumption is 13.8 liters / 100 km.

So, both vehicles accelerate to 100 km/h in the same time, but after that the Range Rover Sport is a lot faster, because of its 129HP advantage.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSMxYS6h2tw

Source: Cars.co.za via Youtube

July 21, 2014

BMW 2-Series M235i Track Edition – Price €83,000

BMW has unveiled a new special 2-Series M235i Track Edition in the Netherlands. The small coupe combines superior driving dynamics with a strong appearance and high quality. It boasts a number of upgrades improving the road behavior as well as the comfort of the driver.

The exterior boasts a complete ///M-Performance body kit including a new front splitter, a pair of revised side skirts and a new rear diffuser housing a stainless steel sports exhaust system. Other highlights include a black front grille, a trunk-mounted lip spoiler and a set of 19” lightweight alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

The interior also comes with a number of ugprades – a set of aluminum pedals, a carbon fiber handbrake with Alcantara upholstery and an Alcantara-wrapped sport steering wheel with a race display providing information like lap times, temperature, shifting moment, etc.

2014 BMW 2-Series M235i Track Edition is powered by the well-known 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder engine – 326HP (240 kW) and 450Nm (322 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission sending the power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically-limited.

BMW will limit the production to just 12 units with pricing starting from whopping €83,000.

Source: BMW

July 21, 2014

2014 BMW F80 M3 Sedan vs E30 M3 DTM – Hockenheim [video]

Sport Autohas published a nice video with an epic battle between the latest 2014 BMW F80 M3 Sedan and the classic E30 M3 DTM. There is a huge 22-year gap between the production dates of the two models, but the old racing car is faster than F80 M3. 2014 BMW F80 M3 Sedan closed a lap around Hockenheim in 1 minute and 13.1 seconds, while the E30 M3 DTM needed just 1 minute and 9 seconds.

2014 BMW M3 Sedan is powered by a 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder – 431HP (317 kW) at 5,500RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,850RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) or an optional 280 km/h (174 mph). The acceleration is even better, when fitted with the optional 7-speed M DCT – 4.1 seconds to 100 km/h. The new M3 is able to cover 100 km with just 8.8 liters of fuel in the combined cycle with the manual transmission and 8.3 liter with the DCT.

BMW E30 M3 DTM was driven by the former race pilot Johnny Cecotto, while the M3 F80 was driven by Sport Auto’s journalist – Christian Gebhardt. Alberto “Johnny” Cecotto is one of the few drivers who managed to compete in motorcycling, Formula 1, DTM, Formula Two, BTCC and Le Mans. The multi-talented pilot is currently supporting the racing career of his son – Johny Cecotto Jr.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pApuVB_UHg

Source: Sportauto

July 21, 2014

2014 Smart ForTwo vs 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class – Crash Test

Here is a very interesting video featuring the new 2014 Smart ForTwo and the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class. They are involved in a head-collision crash test proving that the small car, which is half of the weight of the big saloon is just as safe as the S-Class.

2014 Smart ForTwo is even more safe than the legal requirements. In some points in terms of safety, the small city car exceeds the Euro NCAP regulations. This was demonstrated by a recent in-house offset crash against a Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The impact speed is 50 km/h with 50 % overlap and the Smart offers its two passengers an intact occupant space and excellent chances of survival.

After all, the new Smart ForTwo has undergone the same development programme as, for example, the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Daimler’s 75 years of safety expertise and smart’s 21 years of expertise in building small cars have gone into the safety concept of the new smart generation.

You can see, how the main frame of the 2014 Smart ForTwo is virtually intact and the doors can be opened without additional devices used in heavily crashed vehicles.

Of course, the new Smart doesn’t have so much crumple zones as the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan, but still offers impressive passenger protection.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v708z67ALww

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 18, 2014

Porsche Macan and Boxster – Auto Express Awards

2015 Porsche Macan has been rewarded by Auto Express New Car Awards. It won in the category – Best Compact SUV, while the sporty Boxster received the Best Roadster Award – for the third year in a row.

The Macan is the first Porsche to enter the compact SUV segment and combines the typical handling characteristics like excellent acceleration, braking and extreme agility. The fast crossover also boasts a nice steering precision as well as a high level of comfort and everyday suitability.

“Turn into a corner and the Macan responds with the same athleticism and poise as the mid-engined Cayman….Better still, you get the same perfectly-weighted controls that fizz with feedback. Amazingly, the Porsche is as capable off the beaten track as on it. The permanent four-wheel drive serves up near-unbreakable traction. Yet none of these remarkable dynamic feats comes at the expense of the Macan’s abilities as a desirable family runaround.”, commented Auto Express editorial team.

On the other hand, Porsche Boxster boasts a unique lightweight body, charismatic flat-six engines, sharp chassis responses and evolutionary yet utterly distinctive styling. It defines what an open-top sports car should be. Core to its enduring appeal is the mid-engined layout that delivers poise and balance combined with precise, agile handling.

“There are few cars we’d choose to go for a cross country blast in ahead of the Porsche Boxster. It has poise and power by the bucketload, yet it’s also tremendously comfortable to use as a daily driver. Best of all, for the performance on offer it’s seriously good value.”, the editorial team clearly agreed.

Source: Porsche

July 18, 2014

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe [render]

Here are two very original render images of the upcoming Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe. Both are created by the designer – Remco Meulendijk, who drew inspiration from the C-Class Sedan and its AMG variants.

The result is absolutely amazing and the C63 AMG Coupe boasts a redesigned front bumper, ventilated front fenders and high-performance brake system including big discs and calipers. There are also huge black alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

The model will be powered by a newly developed V8 twin-turbo 4.0 liter engine – 510HP (375 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. It meets the EURO 6 regulations and has a dry weight of just 209 kg (460 lbs).

The power unit benefits from ultra-lightweight pistons and twin overhead camshafts. There are also flow-optimized cylinder heads with zirconium alloy for optimal temperature and thermal conductivity. The cylinder walls have been lined with a nano-slide coating in order to decrease friction. Because of that, there is no need for a conventional oil pan and a dry sump lubrication technology is used.

The new C63 AMG Coupe is expected to hit the market sometime in the middle of 2015. It will compete with the all-new BMW M4, which is currently the leader in its segment.

Stay tuned!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 18, 2014

2015 BMW i8 UK – Price £94,845

BMW UK is going to offer the sensational 2015 i8 sports hybrid car from tomorrow. It is priced from “just” £94,845 OTR. The German manufacturer has finally developed something that looks like a supercar. Furthermore, it boasts extreme efficiency and a number of innovative technologies.

2015 BMW i8 is powered by a 1.5 liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. The overall power is 362HP (266 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft), which is enough for acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

The fuel consumption is impressive – 2.1 liters / 100 km (134.5 mpg UK or 112 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 49 g/km. The 2015 i8 can go up to 37 km (23 miles) only on electricity with zero emissions.

The curb weight of the sports car is extremely low, considering the electric motor and the battery pack – 1,485 kg (3,274 lbs) and a drag coefficient (Cd) – 0.26. The dimensions measure – 4,689 mm in length; 1,942 mm in width and a height of just 1,298 mm. The wheelbase is 2,800 mm and the front/rear tracks – 1,644 mm/1,715 mm.

Some of the standard equipment includes the Navigation system Professional with proactive drive system for all-electric driving, fully-digital instrument display, BMW iDrive with freestanding Control Display and leather sports seats; choice of four exterior paint finishes and four interior equipment variants There are also 20” alloy wheels, a rear view camera, high beam assistant, speed limit info, Surround View, Head-Up Display and Collision Warning with pedestrian recognition.

There is also BMW 360° ELECTRIC providing a package of assistance and mobility solutions, while the ConnectedDrive features intrinsic part of car’s connectivity.

Source: BMW

July 18, 2014

2015 Toyota Sienna [video]

Toyota has officially unveiled the 2015 Sienna MPV. For the first time, the manufacturer is revealing a new vehicle completely online.

“Today’s parents are embracing their life stage and those relatable family moments that make us laugh and feel connected,” commented Jack Hollis, vice president of Toyota Division marketing at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

“The 2015 Toyota Sienna seizes that same spirit of fun, everyday experiences with family and fits into the modern family dynamic. That is why Toyota chose to introduce the newest ‘Swagger Wagon’ to the world through a creative lens.”, he added.

The exterior of the new Sienna boasts a revised front grille as well as new head and taillights. The interior comes with more changes – new upholstery variants, revised instrument cluster and a “conversation mirror” that allows the driver to check on rear seat passengers without having to turn around.

The options list include 4.2” multi-information display as well as an updated infotainment system with 7” touchscreen display and capacitive buttons.

The engine is the well-known 3.5 liter naturally-aspirated V6 – 266HP (198 kW) and 331Nm (245 lb-ft) of torque.

Safety remains a top priority for families, and the 2015 Sienna brings features to help provide peace-of-mind. There are 8 airbags, panoramic backup camera as standard and LATCH locations for easier securing of children’s car seats.

Source: Toyota

July 18, 2014

ST Suspension – Audi A3 and BMW 2-series Coupe

ST Suspensions has presented a range of ST spring sets for the latest Audi A3 and the BMW 2-Series Coupe. Through their sporty spring rate, ST springs enhance the driving dynamic and are made from a chrome-silicon steel alloy.

The cars equipped with ST springs respond more precisely to steering inputs and the drivers benefit from sportier handling characteristics. The different sets of sport springs allow a lowering between 20 and 40 mm on each axle. Like all ST suspensions components, also these ST spring kits include a German TÜV certificate. The pricing is available upon request.

2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe M235i comes with a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline six-cylinder engine – 326HP (240 kW) and 450Nm (322 lb-ft) 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine is connected to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The fuel consumption is decent 7.6 liters / 100 km on combined cycle. There is no doubt that a set of lowering ST springs will further improve the fun behind the steering wheel of such car.

2014 Audi S3 comes with a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine – 300HP (221 kW) at 5,500RPM and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque at 1,800RPM. 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The engine is connected to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed S-tronic automatic transmission.

Source: ST Suspension

July 17, 2014

Porsche 918 Spyder – 0-333 km/h [video]

Christian Gebhardt from Sport Auto had tested the spectacular Porsche 918 Spyder. This particular car is equipped with the Weissach package, so it is even faster compared to the normal version.

The 918 Spyder is not alone in its segment, but it has to compete with LaFerrari and McLaren P1. Still, the Porsche’s hyper-car is currently the fastest production vehicle on the Nordschleife with lap-time of 6 minutes and 57 seconds. McLaren P1 is aiming at 6 minutes and 35 seconds, but until an official lap, this is only a speculation.

2015 Porsche 918 Spyder is powered by a 4.6 liter V8 engine and two electric motors with combined power of 887HP (652 kW) and 1,280Nm (944 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.2 seconds and 0-300 km/h in breathtaking 19.9 seconds.

The Weissach package includes carbon fiber roof, rearview mirrors, windscreen frame and the rear wing. There are also ceramic wheel bearings, titanium chassis bolts and a super lightweight braking system. Last, but not least are the 20” and 21” forged magnesium wheels fitted with ultra-performance tires. The overall result is weight saving of 41 kg (90.3 lbs).

The interior boasts 6-point seatbelt harnesses and additional Alcantara upholstery.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI-DUULV1tE

Source: Porsche

July 17, 2014

AC Schnitzer GP 3.10 Based on BMW E92 335i – On Sale

AC Schnitzer has put on sale a unique GP 3.10 based on BMW E92 335i. It is currently available through ebay.de with a bid of €25,100. The vehicle is registered back in 09/2006 and since then it covered just 27,000 km (16,780 miles). It is finished in a nice Mineral-Grün paint and features a number of styling and performance upgrades.

The most important improvement is the replacing of the original 3.0 liter twin-turbo I6. The new “heart” is the mighty S85B50 – a 5.0 liter V10 from BMW M5 E60, which is boosted to 552HP (406 kW) at 8,000RPM and 540Nm (400 lb-ft) of torque at 6,200RPM. It is coupled to its original tranmission – a 7-speed SMG III gearbox. There is a new sports exhaust system with a sports rear silencer including centrally-placed tailpipe. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds; 0-200 km/h in 13.9 seconds and a top speed of over 322 km/h (200 mph).

The brake system as well as the suspension are also improved. There are 8-piston fixed calipers at the front and rear with brake discs measuring – 374 x 36 mm. The suspension received special stabilizer bars and height-adjustable coilovers. A set of new wheels is installed – AC Schnitzer Lightweight forged alloy Type V – 9.0 J x 20” with 235/30 ZR20 tires and 10.0 J x 20” with 285/25 ZR20 tires, front/rear.

The exterior boasts a new front bonnet with additional air outlet for better cooling of the big engine. There is also a new front apron, modified front and rear fenders, a pair of new side skirts, a roof wing and a trunk lid spoiler with special tear-off edge.

The interior features bi-color leather and Nappa combination, racing seats, new aluminum pedals and black anodized handbrake and i-Drive controller, a set of floor mats with logo GP 3.10. Last, but not least is the three-spoke sports steering wheel “Evo” wrapped in Nappa leather.

Source: AC Schnitzer

July 17, 2014

Author: Victor Ivanov