Victor Ivanov – Page 21 – Automobiles Review

KW 2014 Seat Leon Cupra – Adaptive DDC Coilovers

KW Automotive is now offering DDC plug&play coilovers specially developed for cars with electronic suspension damping. The KW plug&play kits work in perfect harmony with the OEM control.

The adaptive KW DDC suspension systems are compatible with a variety of cars with electronic damping control and the tuning specialists now offer a set for the ex- King of the Ring – 2014 Seat Leon Cupra 280.

The adaptive DCC suspension control (Dynamic Chassis Control) is an integral part of the standard equipment on selected “sports” Seat models such as the Leon Cupra and can be chosen as an option on the rest of the range.

“When installing the KW DDC coilovers, the original struts simply have to be replaced by the KW stainless steel coilovers”, commented KW Product Manager Johannes Wacker.

“Afterwards, each damper only has to be connected with the Seat on-board electronics via the compatible KW plug-in connection. It’s really easy!”, he added.

The KW DDC plug&play coilover kit uses dirt-resistant KW trapezoid thread on the stainless steel struts and on the rear axle height adjusters, meaning the Seat Leon can be varied in ground clearance by the millimeter. The German TÜV tested adjustment range allows a continuous lowering of 35 to 65 mm on both axles.

Source: KW

July 1, 2014

Range Rover Evoque by Caractere

Caractere Exclusive has presented their latest tuning project based on the high-appreciated Range Rover Evoque. The stylish crossover comes with a number of modifications including improved aerodynamics and a set of enormous wheels.

The conversion kit for the Range Rover Evoque includes a new front bumper, a new rear bumper, a roof spoiler add-ons (two pieces) and CW1 light alloy wheels in different sizes – 9J x 20”, 9.5J x 21” and 9.5J x 22” fitted with relevant tires. The rims are finished in nice graphite paint giving them a unique look.

All body parts are manufactured from PU Rim guaranteeing high-quality and durability. They are also easy to install and paint, so the perfect look is warranted.

The engine range of 2014 Range Rover Evoque includes a 2.2 liter four-cylinder diesel with either 150HP (110 kW) or 190HP (140 kW). There is also a powerful 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol engine with 240HP (176 kW). The petrol variant accelerates 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 217 km/h (138 mph). The curb weight is 1,670 kg (3,682 lbs) and the combined fuel consumption stands at just 8.3 liters / 100 km.

Source: Caractere

July 1, 2014

2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec – Road and Track Test

Autocar has published a full test drive of the new 2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo EU-Spec. The sports car has been driven on both public roads and a race track. Behind the steering wheel was the famous automotive journalist – Steve Sutcliffe. He determined whether this extra-special Godzilla is worth the additional cash. Speaking about “additional” cash, the price of GT-R Nismo is whopping £125,000.

2014 Nissan GT-R Nismo is powered by the well-known 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 – 600HP (441 kW) at 6,800RPM and 654Nm (481 kW) at 3,200RPM. The curb weight is 1,720 kg (3,792 lbs), so the power-to-weight ratio is 2.87 kg / hp. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and a top speed 311 km/h (193 mph). The engine is connected to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sending the power to a 4WD (four-wheel drive system).

The Nismo also comes with advanced aerodynamics generating additional 100kg of downforce at 300km/h (186mph) for exceptional road-behavior. The additional power and improved aerodynamics, the GT-R Nismo is able to complete a lap around Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 8.6 seconds. It holds the volume production car lap record, which the gold standard of high performance achievement.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imyb5jJicDI

Source: Autocar

July 1, 2014

ABT Sportsline Online Configurator

“None of our peers is able to provide such quality,” commented CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt about the new high-performance software, which completes the re-designed ABT Website. It now offers an online configurator featuring all tuning parts and showing the possible design of the modified vehicle.

The new ABT configurator includes all models by Audi, VW, Skoda and Seat. It boasts rotating and in 360° 3D. The user can change the basic car click by click and see what impact a new spoiler, a lower suspension setting or new wheels will have. There are also different options for the interior, paint finishes and other nice features. Of course, all pricing is included and is calculated as an overall cost.

“Every selectable component comes with a price tag. The costs of the TÜV entry, assembly or painting are also given,“ explained Hans-Jürgen Abt.

There are almost unlimited opportunities in modifying the chosen vehicle. There are so many parts to combine that you can be confused in a while. There are also all performance packages provided by the tuning company, which can be fitted to the selected model.

Undoubtedly, the new configurator by Abt will catch the attention of the users and they will pay a lot attention to it.

Source: Abt

July 1, 2014

Subaru WRX STI – Isle of Man – “Flat Out: The Full Lap” [videos]

Subaru has published two nice video clips of the new lap record at the Isle of Man TT Road Course. The 2015 WRX STI managed to stop the clock at 19 minutes and 26 seconds. It was driven by the British rally champion Mark Higgins.

Higgins finished the 60.82 km (37.8 miles) course with an average speed of 187.44 km/h (116.47 mph). The slashed over 30 seconds from the previous record of 19 minutes and 56.7 seconds with a 2010 WRX STI. The 2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine – 305HP (227 kW) and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel drive system.

“It was quite a lap we did today and I am really happy to have another record in the bank. The chassis on this new car is so much better it really allowed me to pick up time in each sector in the more technical parts of the course. I lost time on the second part of the track, overshooting my braking point at Sign Post corner. I actually hand-braked the turn in the end, so I feel we can definitely do better.”, said Higgins.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7gmbQ8KxM4

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNqNOC–7Pg

Source: Subaru

July 1, 2014

Avon ZZ5 Tyres – Best-in-Class in Wet Conditions

Avon has presented their ultra-high performance tyre – ZZ5, which is best-in-class in wet conditions. It has achieved an A grade for wet grip across all sizes in the range. The compound of the ZZ5 has been reformulated and now features a high-dispersion silica tread which provides exceptional wet grip, as well as better braking and rolling resistance, all without affecting wear levels.

Avon ZZ5 is designed and developed firmly with the driving enthusiast in mind. The tire was tested extensively on the roads and racetracks across Europe. It also benefits from Avon’s cutting-edge Optinoise technology, ensuring a quieter and smoother ride, while the tyre’s innovative mould shape provides crisp, predictable handling.

“Since the ZZ5 was launched, it has received rave reviews from customers. I’m excited to see us take this flagship UHP product a further step forward, with an A grade for wet grip across its entire fitment size range, providing the optimum in safety at a value for money price.”, commented Avon Tyres UK Sales Director, Jason Clarke.

The Avon ZZ5 is now available in sizes ranging from 17” to 19” rims and width from 205 to 275. Pricing is available upon request and orders can be made directly online or by the phone.

Source: Avon

July 1, 2014

The Third Best Cool Car Under $18000 – 2014 Kia Soul

The new urban hatchback 2014 Kia Soul was ranked by Kelley Blue Book’s (KBB). They ranked 10 of the coolest cars which cost under $18,000 in 2014. The editors put the new Soul at third place at the annual contest of the most stylish and new tech-savvy cars. Kia Soul offers a remarkable and funky design and has wide spectrum of available functions at the value of almost $14,700.

Compared with the previous model, the 2014 Soul is longer and wider and rides on a new more solid chassis. Some of the highlights include significant suspension upgrades and increased torque. These improvements make the 2014 Soul a snappy and movable companion in hard urban environments. It has a wide variety of technology gadgets like Sirius XM radio, Bluetooth and Pandora pre-loaded system into the head unit.

“The second generation Soul retains its iconic design but adds modern cues and premium features to enhance our brand’s value proposition,” commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, KMA.

“Clearly, these refinements have done nothing to diminish the Soul’s cool factor. In fact, the Soul’s funky persona, roomy cabin and increased cargo space have made it a runaway hit with consumers, and demand continues to climb”, he added.

“The Kia Soul you see here may look familiar, but it’s been totally redesigned for 2014,” commented Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB.

“Along with a new look, the second-gen Soul offers a higher level of refinement and even more cool features. Practicality has always been a Soul strong point, and remains a key part of the appeal”, he added.

The new 2014 Soul is now available on the market. There are three trim levels : Base, Plus and Exclaim. The editors of KBB informed that the 2014 Soul increase best-ever monthly sales result with more than 15,000 units sold in May.

Source: Kia

June 30, 2014

Ferrari at 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Ferrari has made an impressive introduction at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The Italian manufacturer exhibited a number of iconic sports cars including 250 LM, 250 GT LWB, 275 GTB, 333 SP, 156 Sharknose, 166M Barchetta and 512S Coda Lunga. Also present were the epic 458 Italia Speciale, California T, LaFerrari and F12 Berlinetta.

Most of these cars tackled the Hillclimb, one of which Pedro de la Rosa was particularly intrigued with: a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB. The owner of the car was honoured to share the history of his historic Endurance Racer with the F1 driver, who clearly appreciates the importance that such iconic cars have had in creating the Ferrari myth that it is today.

Atty Lennox, Lord March’s daughter drove a 458 Italia Speciale. She was truly impressed by Ferrari’s latest mid-engined supercar.

“It’s an incredibly powerful car, yet so beautiful and smooth: it totally blew my mind.”, she said.

“It has a different vibe every year with the different cars that come, but it’s the same familiar faces that are the motorsport family of Goodwood. It’s a really magical place.”, Lennox added.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed continues with Kimi Räikkönen making an appearance as a special guest at the celebrations for the 50^th anniversary of John Surtees’ F1 World title.

Source: Ferrari

June 30, 2014

2014 Lexus IS 300h Executive Edition

Lexus has presented the Executive Edition of the new 2014 IS 300h. The super-efficient saloon is now available to order with pricing starting from £29,995. It packs a number of nice upgrades and boasts low tax and running costs.

2014 Lexus IS 300h Executive Edition is based on the Luxury grade model and comes with leather upholstery and Satellite Navigation system. It represents £3,390 of “complimentary” value to the customer.

Standard extras include front and rear parking sensors, a set of 17” alloy wheels, dusk-sensing HID headlights, cruise control, auto-dimming rear view mirror, dual-zone climate control and rain-sensing wipers.

The IS 300h boasts impressive street presence and offers the kind of comfort and luxury for which Lexus is renowned. The Hybrid Drive system returns impressive official fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions figures – 4.5 liters / 100 km (64.2 mpg UK) with 103 g/km of CO2. Still, the performance is not harmed at all and the new IS300h accelerates 0-100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds.

The Hybrid Drive consists of a 2.5 liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with 178HP (133 kW) and a 141HP (105 kW) electric motor. The petrol engine benefits from a new D-4S fuel injection system, Dual VVT-i intelligent variable valve timing and a high-efficiency exhaust gas recirculation system.

Source: Lexus

June 30, 2014

GTA Spano at 2014 Goodwood

GTA Motor has presented the impressive hyper car – Spano at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed. It is considered one of the most prestigious motoring events worldwide.

The forty best supercars, which are chosen by the Organising Committee took part in this Supercar Run. It includes two two daily hill climbs on the famous course – 2.57 kilometer run in the parklands surrounding Goodwood House. During the 21^st edition, GTA Spanoparticipated for the 3^rd time running, and was surrounded by great expectation. There were more than 190,000 visitors according to Organising Committee data.

GTA Spano is powered by a 8.3 liter naturally-aspirated V10 engine – 780HP (582 kW) or 840HP (626 kW) using bio-ethanol and 960Nm (711 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in less than 3.0 seconds and a top speed of over 350 km/h (217 mph). The curb weight is 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs), which means that the power-to-weight ratio is impressive 1.61 kg/hp.

Some of the special features include a set of enormous wheels – 19” at the front fitted with 255/35 ZR19 Pirelli PZero tires and 20” at the rear with 335/30 ZR20. The brake system is provided by AP Racing and include 6-piston calipers with a pneumatic ABS system and carbon-ceramic discs 380 mm in diameter. The chassis is manufactured from carbon fiber, titanium and Kevlar, making it a benchmark in the industry.

The price is an impressive as the car – €692,975.

Source: GTA

June 30, 2014

Liberty Walk Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

The Japanese tuning company – Liberty Walk has presented a sensational styling package for Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4. The hyper-car is completely restyled with a full wide body kit.

The customization program includes a wide body kit consisting of a new front bumper, a new front splitter, side diffuser, a big rear wing and a new rear diffuser. All parts are manufactured from fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP). Upon request, they can be produced from carbon fiber. The price for the aerodynamics package is $25,860 (FRP) or $30,618 (carbon fiber). Other components include wide fenders – $6,500 and a new lowered sports suspension – $3,780. The car (as seen on photos) is upgraded for $37,118. All new body components can be individually purchased.

No words about performance upgrades for the naturally aspirated 6.5 liter naturally aspirated V12 – 700HP (522 kW) at 8,250RPM and 690Nm (511 lb-ft) at 5,500RPM. The engine is connected to a 7-speed ISR transmission sending the power to an AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 8.6 seconds and 0-300 km/h in 24.5 seconds. The top speed is 350 km/h (218 mph). ¼ mile in 10.2 seconds with 219 km/h and 1 km in 19.1 seconds with 281 km/h.

Source: Liberty Walk

June 30, 2014

2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS – Sport and Night Packages

Mercedes-Benz has published some pictures and details of Sport and Night packages for the recently announced 2015 CLS Facelift. The stylish four-door coupe boasts some nice upgrades adding more value for money and improving driving experience.

Sport Package includes a set of twin-spoke 18” alloy wheels with a Himalaya gray finish. A 19” set is available as an option in different styles. There is also a Direct Control sports suspension with a comfort setup without additional charge. Other upgrades include bigger front brakes with “Mercedes-Benz” lettering on the calipers as well as a dual exhaust system with stainless steel tailpipes. The Sport Package is available for all models except CLS 500 and AMG.

The Night Package features two 18” alloy designs and two 19” wheel sets. There are also high-gloss black mirrors, black window surroundings, tinted rear windows and a glossy black look for the AMG rear apron, radiator grille and the front splitter. The night package is available only with the optional AMG Line kit, which is standard for the CLS 500 model and CLS 500 4MATIC.

2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by a 2.1 liter four-cylinder diesel for CLS 220 BlueTEC – 170HP (125 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft). The same engine produces 204HP (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque for the CLS 250 BlueTEC. There is also a 3.0 liter V6 diesel with 258HP (190 kW) and 620Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque – CLS 350 BlueTEC.

The petrol range includes the new CLS 400 – 3.5 liter V6 bi-turbo – 333HP (245 kW) and 480Nm (354 lb-ft). The CLS 500 has 408HP (300 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque, while the extremely powerful CLS 63 AMG model is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with either 557HP (410 kW) and 720Nm (533 lb-ft) or 585HP (430 kW) and 800Nm (593 lb-ft). All engines comply with EURO6 regulations.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

June 30, 2014

Author: Victor Ivanov