Victor Ivanov – Page 37 – Automobiles Review

2015 Kia Optima – Minor Facelift

Kia US has unveiled the 2015 Optima midsize sedan. It is built at Kia’s West Point, Ga., facility (KMMG) and features next-generation of UVO eServicesand a number of subtle interior refinements meant to improve ergonomics and offer a more premium experience.

As before, the new Optima is available in LX, EX, SX, SX Turbo and SX-Limited trims. The UVO eServices is available as an option on the EX, SX, SX Turbo and standard on the SX-Limited. The new feature include Geo Fencing, Driving Score, Speed Alerts and Curfew Alerts.

Other innovations include repositioning the wheel-mounted buttons, new brushed bezels for the D-shaped steering wheel coming with SX-Limited and also a new black cloth option for the LX.

Outside, the 2015 Optima is now available with a Smokey Blue (late availability) metallic paint, and Sparkling Silver and Platinum Graphite replace Bright Silver and Metal Bronze, respectively. The acoustic laminated windshield, found last year only on SX-Limited, is offered across the Optima lineup for 2015.

The engine range includes two powerful Theta II powerplants: a 2.4 liter GDI four-cylinder and a 2.0 liter GDI turbo.

The 2.4-liter GDI engine is available on LX, EX and SX models while the more robust 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine is offered exclusively in the SX and SX Limited.

Each engine choice is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring Sportmatic shifting. Drive Mode Select (DMS), which offers owners a customizable driving experience by adjusting transmission shift points and steering weight, remains exclusive to the SX Turbo and SX Limited.

Source: Kia

May 16, 2014

2015 Honda Civic Type-R [spy photos]

Worldcarfans has published several spy photos of completely undisguised 2015 Honda Civic Type R. The upcoming hot hatchback comes with an aggressive body kit and a powerful engine.

The new Civic Type-R has been tested alongside with Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG, Renault Megane RS and the new Golf R. The Concept version of the model was introduced at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

The exterior boasts modified front and rear bumpers, a pair of aerodynamic side skirts, extended front fenders and a big rear wing. There is also a new rear diffuser, a four-tailpipe sport exhaust system and dark-yellow alloy wheels fitted with performance tires.

The engine under the hood is expected to be a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol with over 280HP (206 kW). Seat Leon Cupra 280 has already raised the bar with the epic lap around the Green Hell, so all new hot hatchbacks will have at least and over 280HP in order to be competitive. Of course, big brake systems and performance wheel set are compulsory. So, everything will be reduced to the better platform.

We expect the Megane RS 275 Trophy to be the new King of the Ring, until the Civic Type-R is officially on the scene.

Source: WCF

May 16, 2014

Oettinger Volkswagen Golf R – 400HP and 500Nm [video]

Oettinger has presented their latest tuning program for the ultra-hot hatchback Volkswagen Golf R. It comes with a lot of styling and performance upgrades and an impressive power boost.

The 2.0 liter four-cylinder TFSI engine is equipped with bigger turbocharger and improved ECU. The result is epic – 400HP (294 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) – an increase of 100HP and 120Nm. 0-100 km/h in under 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph) – electronically limited. The company offers softer versions with 360 (264 kW) or 380HP (279 kW).

Oettinger 2014 Volkswagen Golf R comes with a new front spoiler, a pair of modified side skirts and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. There is also a big brake system, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system and sets of 19” or 20” alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires.

As is to be expected from Oettinger, the high end tuner from Friedrichsdorf, the Golf R body kit is manufactured in OEM standard high quality RIM.

The latest developments can be admired fort he first time at the Tuner GP in Hockenheim (23^rd and 24^th May) and then a few days later at the GTI meet at the Wörthersee.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGSQF-dgylA

Source: Oettinger

May 16, 2014

Audi A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept – 525HP and 600Nm

Audi has unveiled a spectacular A3 Clubsport Quattro Concept, which will make public debut at the 2014 Wörthersee Motor Show starting on May 28^th. It is based on the S3 Sedan and comes with incredible engine and other performance upgrades.

2014 Audi A3 Clubposrt Quattro Concept is powered by a 2.5 liter five-cylinder TFSI engine with epic 525HP (386 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. Compared to the “tiny” 2.0 liter TFSI and its 300HP (221 kW) and 420Nm (310 lb-ft), the new power unit is sensational. The performance is more than scary – 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph). The curb weight of the car is just 1,527 kg (3,366 lbs), so it has a power-to-weight ratio of 343HP / ton. The power is put on the road through Quattro AWD (all-wheel drive) system and a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox featuring launch control.

Other highlights include an improved suspension and lowered ride height by 10mm. There is also a set of enormous 9.5J x 21” alloy wheels fitted with 275/25 R21. Of course, the manufacturer has fitted the performance sedan with carbon fiber ceramic brake system – 370 millimeters discs.

The exterior boasts impressive Magnetic Blue paint scheme and an aggressive body kit including CFRP front blade and side sills as well as a big rear diffuser and dual oval exhaust pipes. The popular Matrix LED headlights are also present.

The interior features bucket seats equipped with four-point seatbelts. The luggage compartment is present only to fit your racing helmets (two).

The Audi A3 clubsport quattro concept is 4,490 millimeters (14.7 ft) long, 1,856 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide and 1,382 millimeters (4.5 ft) tall. Its wheelbase measures 2,631 millimeters (8.6 ft).

Source: Audi

May 15, 2014

Arden Sport Exhaust System – Range Rover AR 9

Arden Automotive is now offering a high-performance exhaust system specifically for the Range Rover LG. The entire system is made of high-quality stainless steel and includes a pre-and rear silencers as well as sport catalysts.

It not only result in epic soundtrack, but also a significant power increase of 25HP (18 kW). The twin tailpipes are made from polished stainless steel. The system has a flap control, so the owners achieve the maximizing use of performance. It is electronically adjustable through a switch mounted in the center console so that the driver can choose the volume of the system during the trip. Last, but not least, the high-performance sport exhaust system gives a significant throttle response.

The price of the complete system is €8,318 (including 19% Tax). You may decide, that is too much for such kind of upgrade, but it really sounds incredible. Check the video below and convince yourself.

The item number is ARK 64025 and pricing excludes installation!

Range Rover Sport is powered by a 5.0 liter turbocharged V8 with 510HP (375 kW) and 625Nm (463 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).

As you will see in the video, 0-100 km/h in achieved in 4.5 seconds and 0-150 km/h in 8.8 seconds.

Enjoy!

Source: Arden

May 15, 2014

Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG 4MATIC – KW Lowering Springs

KW Tuning is now offering height-adjustable spring kits for Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG Coupe and Shooting Brake. Unlike the normal lowering kits, the ride height can be adjusted to suit the driver’s needs. Of course, the spring kits are TUV certified.

The front axle can be lowered up to 40 mm and the rear axle by 35 mm. The new suspension can be installed quickly and easily. In every workshop or tire dealer, the technicians can replace the standard springs with KW springs.

“While regular lowering springs only allow a fixed lowering of 30, 40 or 50 millimeters, the KW coilover springs can be lowered individually”, said KW Product Manager Johannes Wacker.

“The driver has the option to drive his car with any level of lowering he likes within the adjustment range. Plus, when changing wheels and tyres, he has the option to adjust the ride height to suit the new setup. With conventional springs this would not be possible.”, he added.

The coilover springs can be individually adjusted between 20 and 40 mm at the front axle. The level of lowering at the rear axle is between 15 and 35 mm.

The height-adjustable KW springs a with German TÜV certificate are also available for the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC.

Source: KW

May 15, 2014

Porsche 997 Carrera S Cabriolet by Cam Shaft & PP-Performance

Cam Shaft & PP-Performance has teamed up to create their latest project based on Porsche 911 997 Carrera Cabriolet. The sports car has received both styling and performance upgrades.

The exterior boasts a set of Ultraleggera OZ rims – 8.5J x 20” with 235/25 ZR20 tires at the front and 12J x 20” with 305/20 ZR20 on the rear axle. The wheels are finished in nice gold paint. The chassis is improved thanks to B16 Bilstein coilovers.

Other interesting features include an original Porsche GT3 front apron and TechArt side skirts. The exterior is completely foiled, which will cost the customer €2,100 and additional €780 for the multicolor deco-stripes on sides and bonnet. Last, but not least the visible door edges can also be foiled for only €720.

PP-Performance has given additional power to the engine – a 3.6 liter flat-six with 345HP (254 kW) and 370Nm (274 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 287 km/h (179 mph). The Stage 2 includes header and valve commanded exhaust system, which results in additional 35HP or a total of 380HP (279 kW).

Both tuning companies has done pretty good job and the tuned 997 Carrera Cabriolet looks very impressive.

Source: Cam Shaft & PP-Performance

May 15, 2014

Brabus Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG – 850HP and 1,150 Nm

Brabus has unveiled their tuning program for the latest Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. The performance saloon has received the same performance package as the S63 AMG and some other interesting stuff.

The bi-turbo V8 engine is enlarged to 6.0 liters thanks to increasing the cylinder bore to 99mm and stroke of 96mm. Two new special turbochargers by Brabus and modified exhaust manifolds are also present. The result is spectacular – 850HP (625 kW) at just 5,400RPM and a maximum torque of 1,450Nm (1,069 lb-ft), which is limited to 1,150Nm (848 lb-ft) to protect the gearbox. Speaking about it – a modified SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission sending the power to 4MATIC AWD. A Brabus limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 % is available as an option.

Performance = incredible! 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds with RWD and 3.1 seconds with 4MATIC AWD. The top speed is up to 350 km/h (217 mph).

The exterior features complete aerodynamics package including new front and rear bumpers, a lot of carbon fiber elements like a front lip spoiler and a sporty rear diffuser. There is also a set of 20” Monoblock alloy wheels with Continental, Pirelli or Yokohama tires.

The interior is available in all kinds of colors and also come with a number of carbon fiber trim elements.

Source: Brabus

May 15, 2014

2014 Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy

Renault has finally unveiled the more powerful and faster Megane RS 275 Trophy. The limited edition ultra-hot hatchback comes with a number of improvements, which will help to reclaim the crown: “King of Nurburgring”… for FWD street cars, of course.

2014 Renault Megane RS 275 Trophy is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 275HP (202 kW) at 5,500RPM and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque at 3,000RPM – an increase of 10HP compared to the previous model. The result is thanks to a new Akrapovic titanium exhaust system which is also lighter than the standard exhaust. The hatchback is able to cover 100 km with just 7.5 liters fuel.

There is also a new Cup chassis with a limited-slip differential and can be optionally configured with adjustable Öhlins Road & Track dampers with steel springs derived from the Megane N4 rally car. The new Megane RS can be also ordered with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires available as an option.

Outside, the improved Megane features Trophy badges on the F1-style silver blade, while the personalised body sides feature Trophy decals. Silver has also been selected for the chequered flag graphic at the bottom of the doors. Meanwhile, numbered door sill guards are further evidence of its exclusivity. There is also a set of 19” black Speedline Turini wheels.

The interior is even more sportier – leather and Alcantara Recaro bucket seats with red stitching. The same hue of stitching has been carried over to the rear bench seat, while the headrests feature Renaultsport badging. Other interior highlights include visible red stitching for the Alcantara steering wheel trim and handbrake gaiter, as well as an alloy gear lever knob.

Inside, Megane Renaultsport 275 Trophy comes with leather and Alcantara Recaro bucket seats with red stitching. The same hue of stitching has been carried over to the rear bench seat, while the headrests feature Renaultsport badging. Other interior highlights include visible red stitching for the Alcantara steering wheel trim and handbrake gaiter, as well as an alloy gear lever knob.

Source: Renault

May 14, 2014

JMS 2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

JMS Tuning has unveiled their latest project based on the 2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class W176. The German styling specialists fitted the hatchback with a lot of new elements and soon a performance kit will be available.

Outside, the tuned A-Class comes with a more aggressive front bumper with a new splitter, new side air intakes and a pair of new side skirts. The new front bumper is priced at just €289 and can be installed directly without any modifications. There is also a set of new wheels in dimensions 8.5J x 19” (front and rear), that come together with a new set of tires. The price for the set is 1,599.

Last, but not least is the H&R coilover kit, which can lower the ride height up to 50mm at the front and 45mm at the rear. The price is hefty – €1,199, but you get an entirely new driving experience and improved handling.

For now, there is no performance kit, but JMS is currently working on several, which will boost both petrol and diesel engines across the range. There are no plans for power upgrade for the powerful A45 AMG, which has a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 360HP (265 kW) at 6,000RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM.

Source: JMS

May 14, 2014

Hennessey Chevrolet SS – 1000HP

Hennessey Performance has introduced the Chevrolet SS HPE1000 coming with an extremely powerful 7.0 liter twin-turbo engine. It features forged low compression pistons, forged steel connecting rods, callies 4340 forged steel crankshaft, ARP main studs and head bolts as well as CNC ported cylinder heads, upgraded valvetrain, custom HPE camshaft, fast LSX intake manifold, new injectors, improved fuel system and twin-ball bearing turbochargers.

The result is spectacular – 1,000HP (735 kW) at 6,300RPM. Other performance parts include dual wastegates, electronic boost controller, stainless steel piping and exhaust, air-to-air intercooler and high-flow K&N air filter.

Hennessey offers professional installation, engine management calibration, dyno tuning and road testing as well as a year / 10,000 mile limited warranty.

Styling upgrades feature Hennessey HPE1000 exterior badging, premium floormats, serial-numbered dash and engine plaques.

The performance upgrade requires centerforce dual friction clutch upgrade for the 6-speed manual gearbox or performance build and torque converter upgrade for the automatic models.

Additional appearance and performance options include premium wheel and tire sets, suspension and brake upgrades, headers and exhaust upgrades, customer interior, carbon fiber body components and carbon fiber trim accents. Last, but not least is the Alcantara sports steering wheel.

Source: Hennessey

May 14, 2014

Chrysler – 9-speed Transmission Factory in Tipton, US

Chrysler Group’s Chairman and CEO Sergio Marchionne officially dedicated the Company’s new Tipton Transmission Plant and celebrated the production launch of the fuel-efficient nine-speed transmission today. During a ceremony at the plant, Marchionne told the audience, which included Tipton Mayor Don Havens, Tipton County Board of Commissioners President Phil Heron, UAW Local 685 President Rich Boruff, other invited guests and employees, that Tipton is an operation that will play a vital role in creating prosperity for the Company and for the surrounding communities.

“My confidence is rooted firmly in the knowledge that those of you who work in this area have shown a consistent dedication to delivering products with outstanding quality,” commented Mr. Marchionne.

“You have embraced the principles of World Class Manufacturing, which is enabling us to compete with the best manufacturers in the world. You are the authors of a major success story, creating a great turnaround and making it possible to create the need for this new plant in Tipton.”, he added.

Tipton will become one of the global hubs for 9-speed production. When it reaches full capacity, it will ship about 800,000 finished transmissions to Toledo, Ohio, for use in the Jeep Cherokee and Sterling Heights, Mich., for the Chrysler 200 as well as to Fiat plants in Melfi, Italy; Tofus, Turkey; Pernambuco, Brazil; and China. The potential exists to expand production to other international facilities as needed.

Since June 2009, the Company has invested more than $1.6 billion and hired more than 2,600 people in north central Indiana to produce the next generation transmissions. In total, Chrysler Group employs more than 7,000 people in the five plants in the region.

Source: Chrysler

May 14, 2014

Author: Victor Ivanov