Author: Victor Ivanov

  • BMW – New Engines and xDrive Models for 2014

    BMW will offer a number of new models this year including diesel variants for 2-Series Coupe as well as the 3-Series Gran Turismo. The German manufacturer will also offer xDrive AWD system for 335d Gran Turismo, 430d and 428i.

    The all-new 2-Series Coupe will be available as 218d – 143HP (105 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque and 225d – 218HP (160 kW) and 450Nm (333 lb-ft). The 218d comes with 6-speed manual and can be paired with 8-speed automatic, while the 225d is only available with 8-speed automatic gearbox. BMW 218d Coupe accelerates 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, while the 225d Coupe needs only 6.3 seconds. The small diesel consumes 4.2 liters / 100 km, while the powerful one needs 4.7 liters / 100 km.

    The 3-Series Gran Turismo gains a new 3.0 liter straight-six diesel engine – 258HP (190 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.

    The 4-Series 425d Coupe also can be fitted with the four-cylinder diesel engine with 218HP (160 kW) and 450Nm (333 lb-ft). The coupe also gains a new 430d xDrive model and the convertible will be offered as a 428i xDrive for the first time.

    Last, but not least BMW is going to offer a range of Individual accessories including unique paint and special alloy wheels for all models in the range.

    Source: BMW

  • 2014 Nissan Qashqai – Technology Highlights [video]

    In the new Qashqai, Safety Shield technologies include the following features:

    • Forward Emergency Braking

    By scanning the road ahead using a built-in radar system, the Qashqai delivers three levels of assistance. First is an audible warning, alerting the driver if the gap to the car in front is closing. Secondly, if the driver does not react, the brakes are automatically partially applied. Finally if the gap is still closing, the brakes will be applied harder if necessary.

    • Driver Attention Alert

    The new Qashqai gets to know you so that it can tell when you are getting drowsy. After learning your driving style, the system will monitor driving inputs, showing a dashboard alert if steering becomes erratic, indicating the driver should take a break.

    • Traffic Sign Recognition

    Helping new Qashqai drivers to both stay safe and within the law, speed limit signs are automatically read by the front-facing camera and displayed to the driver. This function works across Europe, regardless of national sign typography. It even recognises that some countries enforce a weather dependent lower speed limit if it’s raining, so both dry and wet weather limits are displayed to the driver.

    • Lane Departure Warning

    A great feature for multi-lane highways, Lane Departure Warning detects if the car is starting to drift out of lane. Advanced computer programming detects road markings allowing the Qashqai to determine if it is drifting out of position. If it does, and the driver has not operated the indicators, a warning is given to the driver to correct their road position.

    • Blind Spot Warning

    Nissan’s system uses the rear view Around View Monitor camera to detect vehicles in the hidden blind spot areas on both sides of the Qashqai. If a vehicle is detected in either blind spot, a discreet warning light illuminates in the glass of the door mirror. If the driver indicates to change lanes and the system detects a vehicle in the danger area, the light flashes and an audible warning is given.
    Moving Object Detection

    • High Beam Assist

    A high resolution camera combined with advanced software has led to a sophisticated automatic high and low headlight beam function for the new Qashqai. The system optimises the use of the headlamps in order to provide the maximum amount of light possible for any driving scenario.
    Safety Shield is just the start of the Qashqai’s technology story.

    • Chassis Control

    Using Nissan’s very latest ride and handling know-how, Chassis Control enhances both ride and handling, learning from the development of a vast variety of features from past Nissan and Infiniti models. While the Vehicle Dynamic Control system (VDC) continues to correct severe traction loss, at lower speeds with lower forces the Active Trace Control applies specific braking force to each wheel to correct the course of the Qashqai when cornering, giving a more dynamic feel without interfering with the driving experience. What’s more, when driving over undulating surfaces, Active Ride Control applies subtle braking to individual wheels to deliver flatter body control enhancing comfort for all occupants.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzkh92n2QlM

    Source: Nissan

  • 2014 Lexus CT 200h – Price £20,995

    Lexus UK has announced the pricing of the 2014 CT 200h, which starts at just £20,995 for the entry level S model. This is a a £1,000 reduction compared to the previous model.

    2014 Lexus CT 200h boasts a new class-leading low of 82g/km for the S version and an incredible combined cycle consumption of 78.5 mpg US. Full details of the across-the-board improvements to the CT 200h will be revealed soon.

    The current range of six model grades – S, SE, Advance, Luxury, F Sport and Premier – is retained, with the addition of some new equipment features and options.

    At the heart of the range the Advance model benefits from a comprehensive upgrade that introduces parking sensors, heated front seats and the new, fully integrated Lexus Navigation system as standard. This wealth of new features it provided with no increase in the model’s on-the-road price.

    Elsewhere in the CT 200h line-up a GPS-controlled clock is provided on higher grade models and the Lexus Navigation package is offered as an alternative to the established Premium system (standard on the Advance, as detailed above). Additional features for the Premier grade include new aluminium scuff plates and LED front fog lamps.

    The 2014 CT 200h is available to order now with first deliveries in March

    MODEL/GRADE VED BIK INSURANCE OTR PRICE PRICE CHANGE
    CT 200h S A 10% 18E £20,995 -£1,000
    CT 200h SE A 10% 19E £22,495 -£1,500
    CT 200h Advance A 10% 19E £23,995 No change
    CT 200h Luxury A 10% 19E £24,495 -£1,500
    CT 200h F Sport A 10% 20E £26,745 -£1,250
    CT 200h Premier A 10% 20E £29,495 -£1,500

    Source: Lexus

  • 2014 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T – US Price $20,295 USD

    Volkswagen US has announced the pricing of the 2014 Beetle 1.8T. The new engine replaces the 5-cylinder 2.5 liter unit and has the same power and more torque.

    The direct-injected 1.8T has 170HP (127 kW) available at 700 fewer RPM and 249Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 2,750RPM. As you may suggest, the turbocharged engine is more economical than the 5-cylinder. The new one will return 33 mpg US on the highway with the 6-speed automatic gearbox, which is 4 mpg more. The city mileage is now 25 mpg US (from 22 mpg) and the combined fuel economy now stands at 28 mpg US.

    The 5-speed manual gearbox will do 24 mpg US in city; 33 mpg US on the highway and 27 mpg US on combined cycle.

    Other innovation is the new electric power steering, which replaces the old hydraulics one.

    2014 Volkswagen Beetle 1.8T is priced from $20,295 for manual and $21,395 for automatic models. The convertible is $25,170 available only as automatic. The prices exclude $820 destination charge.

    Source: VW US

  • Larte Design Infiniti QX60

    LARTE Design has presented their tuning package for the Infiniti QX60. The new black appearance gives the QX60 more aggressive and stylish look.

    The Russian tuning company manufactured all parts from PU RIM, which guarantees high rigidity and light weight. The body kit includes a new radiator grille featuring wide struts and a grille insert in the front apron. There are also twin fog lamps and five square LED DRLs. At the rear, there is a quad exhaust system from stainless steel, which can be mounted within the bumper for a cleaner look.

    Last, but not least, Larte Design fitted the QZ60 with Design a bespoke set of 22” alloy wheels finished in matt black and fitted with low-profile tires.

    Larte does not offer any performance packages for now.

    Source: Larte Design

  • Nissan GT-R DT1200R – 1 mile in 22.484 seconds with 371 km/h

    Once again Garage D proven that Nissan GT-R is one of the best sports cars in the world. This time the tuned GT-R DT1200R managed to set an impressive time at 1 mile as well as at ¼ mile drag race.

    Nissan GT-R Mk.1 DT1200R has no less than 1200HP and it needs just 9.450 seconds to cross ¼ mile mark with epic 265 km/h. One mile is finished in 22.528 seconds with 371 km/h, which is pretty amazing.

    In the video we can also see a second start versus Audi RS6, which the GT-R humiliates. During the second start, the DT1200R does ¼ mile in 9.360 seconds with 266 km/h and 1 mile in 22.484 seconds again with 371 km/h.

    The DT1200R is completely street legal.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNhnl9TZjP0

    Source: Dragtimesinfo

  • Radical RXC and RXC Turbo – Street Legal in the US [video]

    Radical RXC and RXC Turbo are approved for street-legal use in the United States. Both sports cars look more like track-only models, but they meet all requirements for everyday use.

    Radical RXC is powered by a 3.7 liter V6 – 380HP (283 kW) and 433Nm (320 lb-ft) of torque. The RXC Turbo comes with a 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 – 460HP (338 kW) and 678Nm (500 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 2.6 seconds and a top speed of 298 km/h (185 mph).

    The British manufacturer has been working with American RXC owner Jeffrey Cheng to get the car approved. The task is extremely difficult, especially with low-volume British sportscars. Still, they succeeded, where others have failed.

    Radical RXC complies with all regulations for both Europe and worldwide in all key criteria areas – visibility, crash safety, noise and emissions.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XPiraU7XFc

    Source: Radical

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class – Engine Lineup

    The full engine lineup for the all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been published by Mercedes-Benz Passion blog. The W205 will be available with four petrol power units, four diesels and two hybrid models.

    Petrol Engine Models:

    • C180 – 1.6 liter – 156HP (115 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft); 5 liters / 100 km and CO2 116 g/km
    • C200 – 2.0 liter – 183HP (135 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft); 6.4 liters / 100 km and 120 g/km
    • C300 – 2.0 liter – 238HP (175 kW) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft); 6.3 liters / 100 km, 143 g/km
    • C400 4MATIC – 3.0 liter – 333HP (245 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft); 7.8 liters / 100 km, 178 g/km

    Diesel Engine Models:

    • C180 BlueTEC – 1.6 liter – 116HP (85 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft); 3.8 liters / 100km, 104 g/km
    • C200 BlueTEC – 1.6 liter – 136HP (100 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft); 3.8 liters / 100 km, 104 g/km
    • C220 BlueTEC – 2.2 liter – 170HP (125 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft); 4.0 liters / 100 km, 103 g/km
    • C250 BlueTEC – 2.2 liter – 204HP (150 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft); 4.4 liters / 100 km

    Hybrid Models:

    • C300 BlueTEC HYBRID – 2.2 liter – 204HP (150 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft), a 20 kW electric motor, 3.8 liters / 100 km, sub 100 g/km
    • C 350 HYBRID Plug-In – 2.0 liter – 211HP (155 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft), a 50 kW electric motor, 3 liters / 100 km

    All models will be available this year, excluding the C300 BlueTEC HYBRID which is set to be launched in 2015. Nothing is mentioned about the new C63 AMG, so stay tuned!

    Source:blog.mercedes-benz-passion.co

  • Duke Dynamics MD4 based on BMW M4

    Duke Dynamics has published several pictures of their tuning package for the recently announced 2014 BMW M4. The tuning company offers a number of styling upgrades for the sports coupe.The exterior boasts a new front bumper with a three-piece carbon fiber front lip spoiler. There is also a new vented front hood, a pair of carbon fiber side skirts and extended wheel arches. At the rear we can see a carbon fiber diffuser and a carbon fiber or fiberglass rear spoiler.Nothing is mentioned about performance upgrades, but the M4 can be easily tuned to 500HP and 650Nm with only an ECU re-map.The body kit will be unveiled at Bimmerfest 2014 and sales will begin in July.Stay tuned!

  • Kia GT4 Stinger Convertible Concept [render]

    X-Tomi Design has published a render picture of Kia GT4 Stinger Convertible Concept. The Korean manufacturer managed to impress the audience at 2014 NAIAS in Detroit with GT4 Stinger Concept.

    The Coupe is powered by a T-GDI 2.0 liter engine – 315HP. All of that power is sent to the rear wheels via a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. The stopping power is courtesy to the Brembo Gran Turismo 15” crossdrilled rotors and four-piston calipers.

    The GT4 Coupe boasts 52:48 weight distribution, the quick-ratio steering rack and its relatively low unsprung mass which stands at 1,303kg (2,874 lbs). Probably the Convertible will be slightly more heavy, but it will still manage to keep the perfect weight distribution.

    Source: X-Tomi Design

  • 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 R Race Car

    Chevrolet has unveiled the Camaro Z 28 R Race Car. It will make its official debut in a 2.5-hour endurance race ahead of the 52nd Rolex 24 At Daytona. It will be one of the most production-based competitors on the track, sharing aero, engine and even axle components with the new 2014 Camaro Z 28.

    The Daytona race begins at 1:45 p.m. EST, on Friday, Jan. 24, kicking off the 12-race 2014 season.

    “The original Camaro Z/28 was designed for racing and became an iconic performance car through its hard-fought victories”, commented Mark Kent, director of racing for Chevrolet.

    “A new chapter in racing begins this week, as the new Camaro Z/28 makes its competition debut in one of the most hotly contested series in motorsports.”, he added.

    The Camaro Z28 R comes with an aero package including front splitter, rear spoiler with wickerbill, hood extractor vent, wheel-house extensions and front tire deflectors as well as a belly pan.

    The Z28 R is powered by the same 7.0 liter LS7 V8 with 500HP (373 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed Tremec gearbox powering the rear wheels, where an LSD takes care about the traction.

    Other highlights include Brembo carbon ceramic brake system and a track-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and adjustable spool-valve dampers.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • ABT Volkswagen Transporter T5

    ABT has presented their latest project based on Volkswagen Transporter T5. The passenger van comes with both – styling and performance ugprades.

    The 2.0 liter TDI is boosted to 200HP (147 kW) and 440Nm (326 lb-ft) of torque. The 2.0 liter TSI can produce 240HP (176 kW), which is an increase of 36HP over the factory power. ABT Sportsline also offers chip tuning for the less powerful variants – the TDI with 84HP, 102HP and 140HP.

    The tuning company can install special suspension springs lowering the ride height or an entire sport-type suspension.

    The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including front and rear skirt, rear spoiler, side skirts, front grille and daytime running lights available for both the long and short wheelbase. All parts are made from PUR-RIM material guaranteeing perfect quality.

    Last, but not least is the stainless steel quad-pipe sports exhaust system.

    Source: ABT