Author: Victor Ivanov

  • 2014 Jeep Cherokee – Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year

    2014 Jeep Cherokee has been named “Northwest Outdoor Activity Vehicle of the Year” by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA). In addition, the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was named the winner of the Premium Standard Utility class, and the 2014 Jeep Cherokee also was the winner of the Compact Utility class.

    “The 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk was named the winner based on its outstanding performance, off-road capabilities, features, fuel economy and value after rigorous testing,” commented Ryan Douthit, Co-Chair of the event.

    “The new Cherokee represents a near-perfect blend of the features and performance that northwest buyers expect.”, he added.

    The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee sets new standards in the mid-size SUV segment. It delivers improved fuel economy, superior on-road ride and handling, revolutionary design, world-class craftsmanship, clever functionality and versatility, more than 70 safety and security features and user-friendly technology. There is also unmatched off-road capability while not sacrificing on-road ride and handling, comfort or segment-leading features.

    It also has  an unprecedented combination of best-in-class fuel economy and driving range, available clean-diesel technology. The manufacturer has  recorded the best two sales months in its 73-year history in March and April. Both Cherokee and Grand Cherokee recorded more than 15,000 sales.

    Source: Jeep

  • Russian Drag Racing Championship [highlights]

    Dragtimesinfo has published another epic video with highlights from Russian Drag Racing Championship. If you think that the street cars from Unlimited 500+ are fast consider that again. The beasts from RDRC are the real deal.

    The moments in this video are just spectacular and will take your breath away. Burnouts and insane starts are all over place. Those are one of the fastest cars on the planet and of course most of them need parachutes to help them stopping.

    Even, if you are not a fan of drag racing, these cars will impress you. From a turbocharged BMW E30 to old Nissan Skyline and even a Lada Samara, all of them are just spectacular. Most of the cars has a lot more power than they actually weight and the acceleration is staggering. Do not think that drag racing is an easy discipline, where drivers should just go in straight line and change gears. It needs superfast reflexes, months and years of preparation, and devotion like all other motorsports.

    Take a moment and enjoy this full of adrenaline and epic moments video, which will take you away from the reality to a different world full of power and craziness.

    “For those ten seconds or less, I’m free.”

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-M7S2XbL6Y

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • 2016 BMW 2-Series ///M2 [spy photos]

    Worldcarfans has published several spy photos of the upcoming 2016 BMW 2-Series M2. It comes with wider front and rear tracks compared to the standard model. It also features some cues from the M235i Racing.

    Other highlights include the new blue ///M big brake system and a set of 19” alloy wheels taken from the M3 and M4. Still, there are a lot of improvements to come, but the car looks pretty much production ready.

    The most important – a six-cylinder 3.0 liter turbocharged petrol with around 380HP (279 kW) and over 500Nm (370 lb-ft) of torque. This is an increase of 54HP and 50Nm compared to the M235i. The acceleration 0-100 km/h in be around 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The engine is connected to a an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox sending the power to a variable ///M differential at the rear wheels.

    According to the latest rumors, the new BMW 2-Series M2 will be officially unveiled in the end of the next year, and first deliveries are expected sometime in 2016. Still, there is a lot of time, so more information and pictures will be published.

    Stay tuned!

  • Renault Megane RS275R Will Lap Nurburgring in 7:45

    Renault is going to unveil the Megane RS275R on June 16th. The ultra-hot hatchback will claim the title “Fastest FWD car” at the world famous Nurburgring race track. The Megane Trophy held the record for a long time, but the current number one is Seat Leon Cupra 280.Renault Megane RS275R is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 275HP (202 kW) – an increase of 10HP thanks to the new Akrapovic sport exhaust system.The previous version Renaultsport 265 Trophy had 265HP (195 kW) and 360Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque available between at 3,000RPM. It achieves impressive power-to-weight ratio of 191HP / tonne.Besides of the engine, Renaultsport 265 Trophy has a set of 19” gloss black Speedline alloys with red rim fitted with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres. The car boasts “Trophy” red decals on the F1-style front blade and doors, and LED DRLs.We also expect some additional weight saving for the new RS275R, so it will aim at 7 minutes and 45 seconds around the Green Hell. The target is not impossible considering the new modifications. We will soon find out whether the improved RS275R will be the King of the Ring once again or Renault will have to work additionally to take the crown from the mighty Leon Cupra.

  • 1991 Lamborghini Diablo – Test by Jay Leno

    Lamborghini Diablo had been produced from 1990 to 2001, when it is replaced by the spectacular Murcielago. The true classic supercar – 1991 Lamborghini Diablo is a “guest” in the latest episode of Jay Leno’s Garage.

    The words can’t describe this incredible car featuring exceptional Italian craftsmanship. It is powered by a 5.7 liter V12 48-valve engine featuring dual overhead cams and computer-controlled MPFI (multi-point fuel injection). The power is epic (considering the age) – 499HP (367 kW) and 580Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph). It has a RWD (rear-wheel drive) layout with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

    Other features include fully adjustable seats and steering wheel, electric windows, an Alpine premium audio system and power steering from 1993 onwards. ABS (anti-lock brake system) was not initially available, but the manufacturer eventually installed it.

    The option list was short and included a custom-molded driver’s seat, remote CD changer and a subwoofer, rear spoiler, factory fitted luggage set and an exclusive Breguet clock for the dashboard.

    Enjoy the test!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyAUxLFR04Q

    Source:  Jay Leno’s Garage

  • Mercedes-Benz C-Class Night Package

    Mercedes-Benz has announced the Night Package for the new C-Class W205. The manufacturer will get orders from the next month and first deliveries are expected not earlier than September, this year.The Night Package will be available exclusively for the AMG Line trim and will bring upgrades such as black chrome tailpipes, glossy black diffuser, dark tinted rear and sinde windows, lacquered high glossy black mirror frames, high-gloss black double-slat grille, black anodized window frames and a glossy front splitter.Other highlights include black accents to the 18” and 19” AMG wheels, while the upcoming C-Class Estate S205 will also get black anodized roof rails. The C-Class Estate will be unveiled by Mercedes-Benz on May 23rd.The engine range of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class includes C180, C200, C300 and C400 4MATIC petrol variants and C180 BlueTEC, C200 BlueTEC, C220 BlueTEC and C250 BlueTEC diesels. For the first time, there will be two hybrid models – C300 BlueTEC HYBRID and C 350 HYBRID Plug-In.

  • 2015 Kia Sorento – Best Family Vehicle in the US

    2015 Kia Sorento was named Best Family Vehicle by the Northwest Automotive Press Association (NWAPA). This happened during the annual “Mudfest” competition in Snoqualmie, Washington.  More than 20 NWAPA automotive journalists evaluated vehicles on an autocross course as well as paved and moderate off-road routes during the two-day event and selected winners in five categories.

    “The U.S.-built* Sorento is one of Kia’s most popular vehicles and sports dynamic and sophisticated design elements, inside and out,” commented Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, Kia Motors America.

    “Winning the Best Family Vehicle by NWAPA is further validation of the Sorento’s appealing blend of all-around style and capability with an abundance of safety features.”, he added.

    2015 Kia Sorento comes with powerful Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) V6 engine, a high-style interior, next-generation infotainment system and Kia’s Blind Spot Detection system. There are four trim levels including – LX, EX, SX and SX Limited.

    Options in the 2015 Sorento include a programmable power liftgate, panoramic sunroof with a one-piece, power-operated shade, integrated 2ndrow sliding sunshades, available dual ventilated air-cooled front seats, a 115-volt power inverter, and illuminated door handle pockets.

    Source: Kia

  • 2015 Ford Mustang Hits European Market [video]

    Ford is going to hit the European market with the all-new 2015 Mustang on May 24th. During the UEFA Champions League Final, the manufacturer will receive orders for the sports coupe.

    Ford has been an official UEFA Champions League partner since 1992. This year the Final in Lisbon, Portugal, is expected to attract a Europe-wide audience of 70 million football fans and 165 million people around the world.

    Initially, the new Mustang is available as a coupe in a Race Red or a convertible in Magnetic Silver. The engine range includes a 2.3 liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine – 309HP (227 kW) and 407Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque or a powerful 5.0 liter V8 with over 426HP (313 kW) and 529Nm (390 lb-ft).

    The standard equipment includes black leather upholstery, heated and vented front seats, GPS satellite navigation and 19” alloy wheels fitted with low profile tires.

    “The arrival of the new Ford Mustang in Europe is an event that deserves the biggest possible stage. We hope that making the first models available to order at the exact moment the Final kicks off will ensure a reach which matches the significance.”, commented Roelant de Waard, Ford of Europe vice president of Marketing, Sales & Service.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Va5F6M-Miok

    Source: Ford

  • MEC Design Ferrari 458 Italia

    MEC Design has unveiled their latest tuning project based on one of the best super cars on the planet – Ferrari 458 Italia. It comes with a number of styling upgrades and a complete sports exhaust system.

    Outside, the tuned 458 Italia features a Scossa Rossa body kit including a new front lip spoiler, “spoiler corners,” extended side skirts and a three-piece rear diffuser. The kit starts from €6,900, but all parts can be purchased separately.

    Other highlights include a set of lowering springs and a sports exhaust system that delivers an apocalyptic noise. There are different types of wheel / tire sets ranging from 20” to 22” depending on customers choice. This particular model comes with a 9.5J x 21” at the front and 12.5J x 21” at the rear fitted with 245 and 345 tyres, respectively.

    The interior comes with some new carbon fiber elements, special sill plates and MEC-branded floor mats. The steering wheel features carbon and leather.

    Source: MEC Design

  • Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Line

    Piecha Design Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Line

    Piecha Design has announced their tuning package for Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG Line W176. The hatchback comes with a number of styling upgrades at decent price.

    The exterior boasts splitters in graphite gray (€183), front – Cup – Wings (€440), a new rear diffuser (€714). There are also new exhaust tips with quad design (€572). The tuning company offers a complete sport exhaust system for €1,287. Last, but not least is the set of Piecha rims with wheel/ tyre combination with 235/35 R19 to 8.5J x 19” front and 255/30 R19 with 9.5J x 19″ rear. There is also a specially developed sport suspension (€238). Optionally also the variant with a wheel / tyre combination 235/35 R19 to 8.5J x 19” front and back selected. Wheel set price is available on request.

    PIECHA Design has once again shown an extra ordinary and creative solutions on how to make a standard vehicle into a unique PIECHA Mercedes. The tuning specialists are preparing a spectacular newcomer which will join the PIECHA GT -R Family!

    As a reminder, the top-of-range Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG is powered by a a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 360HP (265 kW) at 6,000RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM.  0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The engine is mated to an AMG SPEED SHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with three driving programs, double-declutching function and Race Start.

    Source: Piecha Design

  • ABT 2014 Audi S8 – 640HP and 780Nm

    ABT has unveiled their tuning program for the performance luxurious saloon – 2014 Audi S8. It comes with some nice styling upgrades and epic power improvement.

    2014 Audi S8 is powered by a 4.0 liter twin-turbo V8 with 520HP (382 kW) at 6,000RPM and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque at 1,700RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. ABT power New Generation boosts the engine to 640HP (471 kW) and 780Nm (578 lb-ft). 0-100 km/h in less than 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph).

    Other highlights include a four-pipe stainless steel ABT muffler system, a set of 21” ABT DR wheels. Customer can also opt for ABT 20” ER-C alloy wheels in silver-bulllet or Gun-Metal color.

    Last, but not least is the ABT Level Control lowering the ride height by 25mm each on both the front and rear axle. The stance is spectacular and the handling is improved a lot.

    ABT S8 is called King of the Road and you will immediately know why, when you see it. Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7-Series will face a tough competitor and only the factory tuners will be able to help them against The King!

    Source: ABT

  • Really Spectacular Present: A Pink Cadillac Escalade

    What is better for a present except a car? Yes, that’s right – a pink 2015 Cadillac Escalade specially prepared for you mother. The famous football quarterback – Teddy Bridgewater has purchased one as a gift for Mother’s Day.

    “When I was in third grade, I promised my mom I would get her a pink Cadillac Escalade,” Bridgewater said.

    “Pink is the color that represents breast cancer awareness, so I just want to get her that big pink Escalade truck and see that big smile on her face.”, he added.

    The 2015 Cadillac Escalade design is entirely new yet instantly recognizable. Much of its redesign focuses on the interior, where new levels of hand-crafted luxury combine with the latest technologies. The all-new Escalade is on sale now and is built in Arlington, Texas.

    As a reminder, the 2015 Escalade is priced from $71,695 and a fully-loaded vehicle costs $92,840.

    Source: Cadillac