Auto News – Page 185 – Automobiles Review

Astonishing custom-made Dodge Viper ACR reaches 765HP

GeigerCars.de take full responsibility for this conversion

This Dodge Viper ACR is nothing ordinary. It features a special tuning by the experts at GeigerCars.de, which enhances its looks and power capability. Already in extinction, the named-after-the-poisonous-snake muscle car, stands out immediately with its 8.4 litre V10 engine with its innate 645 hp.

But the unit has more potential than that. Why do we think so? Because Karl Geiger and his team, extracted the extra 111 hp from this giant powerplant. And this happened via a classic naturally aspirated tuning; meaning exactly ported and polished cylinder heads, larger 2.215-inch diameter intake valves, high-lift camshaft, uprated hydraulic lifters, pushrods, and double valve springs.

The Viper tuning program does not end here. It also comprises of exhaust headers, 200-cell Sports catalytic converters and a stainless steel sports exhaust system. The latter reduces backpressure and brings about amazing racing soundtrack. The last thing done that boosts the horses is the ECU-remapping, which also makes full use of the new hardware.

GeigerCars.de Dodge Viper ACR rear view

Furthermore, GeigerCars installed more efficient engine oil cooler, which enhances the reliability and longevity of the engine in hard track use. In addition, the rear axle has also received an oil cooler system with an electric pump.

To improve the downforce, the specialists added an ‘Extreme Aero Package’ that consists of huge front air splitter, twin dive flaps for the front apron and a rear diffuser. The weight is somewhat reduced with the new 19-inch forged alloys that has been given to the Viper.

If this simple conversion has grabbed your attention just for a bit, then the good news is that it costs 40,775 euro. By the way, the GeigerCars Viper ACR with the “Extreme Aero Package” is also available for 219,000 euro.

GeigerCars.de Dodge Viper ACR rear view

Source: GeigerCars.de

August 22, 2016

Californian debut for passionate Lamborghini Centenario Roadster

The seductive limited edition supersports car sold out months before official debut

Centenario Roadster has been finally revealed at “The Quail” during the weekend. There were no general surprises and the car is exactly what we have expected: an open top variant of the sensational coupe version. Just like the latter, the production of the roadster is also limited to 20 units, which have been already sold out, each priced at 1.75 million euros.

Both the coupe and the open-top variant are honoring the centenary of its founder, Ferruccio Lamborghini. These special commemorative series express at an ultimate level the freedom given to the designers in their task to create an open design with progressive characteristics. The essence of their work can be expressed with the motto “form follows function”, which is core to brand’s iconic DNA.

Design

Lamborghini Centenario Roadster rear view

With clean forms and mono-body shape, made entirely from carbon fiber, the roadster is dressed in a special matte silver exterior paint finish, “Argento Centenario”, which further accentuates the curvaceous profile.

Lamborghini said that one of the core values of this car is that it features enhanced aerodynamic design, because of its extended rear wing and the mandatory rear-wheel steering. Hence there is more agility and stability at hand. Note that with a dry weight of just 1,570 kg (3,461 lbs), the Centenario achieves a weight-to-power ratio of 2.04 kg/hp.

Advanced aerodynamics are very important especially when it comes to open-top cars, so that the turbulence and air recirculation for the cabin passengers to be at its minimum. This optimal design and function is achieved with the implementation in the rear wall, in the back of the headrest.

Centenario runs on Pirelli PZero tyres, which were specifically developed for rear-wheel steering, and are coupled with 20”/21” front/rear forged rims. Even the spokes’ fan shape is accented in carbon fiber! An integrated rear diffuser defines the back of the car, and it is accompanied by the ‘Y’- shaped LED lights that stretch the full width of the rear.

On the inside, this Lambo features a luxurious cabin in light brown Alcantara Terra di California with Bianco Polar leather inlets. There is decorative stitching and piping and detailed cross-stitching on the seats, dashboard and rocker cover. The company has included new fully connected infotainment and innovative 10.1 inch touchscreen system that allows fast internet browsing and featuring Apple CarPlay.

Lamborghini Centenario Roadster interior

Power and performance

The V12 driving the Lambo is actually the most powerful engine produced by Lamborghini up to date. It produces 770 hp (566 kW) from 8,350 rpm to 8,600 rpm, which is enough to make the roadster accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in mere 2.9 seconds. The top speed is over 350 km/h. But more impressive is the braking capability of Centenario: from 100 the 0 km/h the car needs just 31m (102 feet) to fully stop.

Lamborghini’s new rear-wheel steering system dominates the model. It actually strengthens the three driving modes: Strada, Sport and Corsa, and in particular – the lateral dynamics. Maximum responsiveness and driver feedback is provided by Lamborghini’s magneto rheological suspension and Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS). Faster gear shifting is ensured by the Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox.

At last, the Italian supercar brand announced that it will continue its strategy of producing one-off cars and exclusive limited editions like this one. So, what’s next Lamborghini?

Source: Lamborghini

August 22, 2016

Acura Precision Concept has received some special attention at the Concours d’Elegance

2016 Acura Precision Concept Acura Precision Concept was chosen as one of the featured models on the Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, August 21. As we have told you, the vehicle is created at the Acura Design Studio in California as a dynamic and passionate expression of Acura’s ‘Precision Crafted Performance’ project.

The Concept itself offers a supercar-like stance, high-performance-oriented drivetrain system and overall body shape, neat proportions and of course, this impeccable styling that only Acura designers can develop and deliver us.

Furthermore, the athletic stance is enhanced by deep side surfaces and large and beautiful 22-inch wheels. In terms of styling, the vehicle strikes with signature lights: the front strikes with Jewel Constellation LED headlights and the back hits with floating LED taillights.

Of course, the worthy vehicle also proudly shows a neat interior design with cantilevered surfaces that meet sweet tones, modern details and all-time classic lines and curves. Instantly recognizable are the double-layered instrument panel, the high-contrast front seat surfaces, the thin floating rear seats and the modern lounge furniture.

Long story short, this vehicle is far more valuable and beautiful than we all thought. So, we do congratulate the whole Acura team and we wish themthe very best of luck, love and success.

Source: Acura

August 22, 2016

FIAT 124 Spider Anniversary Edition is sold out! We still try to find out what is so special about this one

2016 FIAT 124 Spider Anniversary Edition Remember that sweet FIAT 124 Spider Anniversary Edition that first showed up at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show in March? The same one, created to honor the 50th anniversary of the original roadster back in 1966? It is sold out. This is it. The end.

So, we did like the vehicle, but we were not convinced it would sell out that quickly. In fact, there is only one question that bothers us: what makes this vehicle so damn special?

Exclusive and limited to 124 units, the model offers unique equipment specifications and features: buyers are granted with Passionate Red exterior paint, premium silver finish on the windscreen frame, rollover bars and door mirrors and of course tons of “Anniversary Edition” badges. In case owner forgot. Or, in case of random passengers did not realize what they are seeing.

So, what else? There are LED adaptive headlights, seven-inch touch screen infotainment system, satellite navigation, DAB radio, USB ports, Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth connectivity. All usual stuff that usual vehicles do offer as standard features. And you know what more there is? Keyless start, BOSE audio system, rear parking sensor and 17-inch alloys. Now it sounds mediocre.

But maybe there are sweet additions within the drivetrain system? Owners can show off with FIAT’s proven 1.4-liter MultiAir turbo-charged four-cylinder power unit with maximum output of 140hp (104kW) and 240Nm of torque. What is actually special about the drivetrain system is that it comes with double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension, lightweight roadster architecture and fine-tuned weight distribution and rear-wheel drive chassis.

Well, it does not sound that bad, but we still can’t figure out how this one became so popular. What are your thoughts about the vehicle? Drive in the comment section below!

Source: FIAT

August 22, 2016

2017 Vanquish Zagato Volante: too much refinement is never enough

2017 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante Aston Martin proudly announces the partner of the Vanquish Zagato Coupe: Vanquish Zagato Volante. This sweetheart will accompany the North American debut of the Coupe model and will be strictly limited to just 99 vehicles. Created at Aston Martin’s headquarters in Gaydon, England, Volante has a lot to demonstrate.

Overwhelming customer interest and positive feedback

Zagato Volante is a fine creation from a collaboration of almost 60 years. As you might know, everything started with the 1960 DB4 GT Zagato race car and throughout the years there were new and worthy additions: DB7 Vantage Zagato of 2002, 2011 V12 Vantage Zagato and now, the most recent to date is the Zagato Coupe, announced earlier this year.

In fact, there were also previous convertibles Zagato models: we immediately think of the striking V8 Vantage Volante, first shown back in 1987 and the DB AR1 back in 2003. The last one, the DB AR1 was also limited to 99 units and is considered to be one of the finest collectable models worldwide. And as it looks like, Aston Martin team continues the tradition to strike our minds with unique style and quality.

More in-detail

2017 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante

Vanquish Zagato Volante is expected to be a mighty addition to the lineup: embodying Aston Martin’s refined taste and meticulous attention to detail, Zagato is expected to deliver 592hp (444kW) and have an acceleration rate, measured at 3.7 seconds for a run from 0 to 100km/h (62mph).

Exterior tweaks

In terms of exterior styling, Volante shares the same proportions as the Coupe: definitely an instant-recognizable Aston Martin vehicle, this one also has this classic Zagato twist with round tail light reflectors and the same bladed LED technology as in the Vulcan supercar. We see neat twin cowls on the rear deck that blend into the leading edge of the luggage compartment, concealing a folding hood and cool carbon-fiber sills around the lower body to add that boost to the sporty appearance and performance. We tend to like this design.

Interior

2017 Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante

Of course, we expect nothing, but the finest, as it comes to comfort and quality of an Aston Martin vehicle. Brand’s specialist ‘Q’ division adds luxurious and stylish components that include herringbone carbon-fiber, anodized bronze detailing and fine Bridge of Weir leather. Of course, we expect that there would be tons of personalization features, but what we also know so far is that the Volante will offer 100% Aston Martin driving experience, blended with new-age technologies. Cool.

Source: Aston Martin

August 22, 2016

Audi announces details for the Q2 Edition #1: what’s so special about it?

2016 Audi Q2 Edition #1 Audi is ready to launch its new compact SUV and show why it is not afraid of experimenting. the Q2 Edition #1 comes in exclusive gray interior finish, black and Manhattan gray exterior details, stylish 19-inch wheels and long list of standard features. Eventual buyers can expect first deliveries in early September this year.

Q2 Edition #1 is based on the looks of the S lineup and features sporty bumpers and sills, distinctive diffuser and some exclusive additions: black blade on the C-pillar, black exterior mirror housings. And all this is topped with new paint finish, Quantum Gray. Sweet. And depending on the angle of light rays, the dark tone changes character from completely homogeneus to intense mix between light and shadows.

2016 Audi Q2 Edition #1

What we also know is that Audi will feature the Singleframe grile and bumpers, athracite black 19-inch wheels with five-arm rotor design, standard LED headlights and rear lights.

In terms of interior, the special edition will try to impress customers and Audi enthusiasts with height-adjustable sporty seats, leather-covered multifunctional sports steering wheel, heather pack and illuminated aluminum door sill trims. The standard dominating colors would be black and amaretto with slight accents of titanium gray.

2016 Audi Q2 Edition #1

Also, what is known so far is that Audi Q2 Edition #1 will be available with all engine variants, whatever that means. Imagine having an Audi Q2 with nitrogen drivetrain system that can cook pizza at the same time. It would be nice.

Source: Audi

August 19, 2016

Cadillac Escala Concept is the secret vehicle that amazed everyone at Pebble Beach

Escala Concept features design & technical ideas of the future Cadillacs

Cadillac Escala Concept is the third design study we’ll talk about today. It has been too shown at the annual Pebble Beach meeting. As the company has revealed previously, the new model is previewing the future design direction that Cadillac vehicle would take. In addition, it also exemplifies a technology-infused interior and a lot of craftsmanship inside and out. If Cadillac really wants to raise customer’s interest, the all of the features we see here must be included in the futures models. Only time will show what will happen.

The concept study definitely “wow’-ed at Pebble Beach. To what should be attribute that? First we have to mention that Escala means “scale”, which actually shows with words that the concept car is larger that the previous Cadillac models.

The design study is a beautiful 4-door flagship sedan with expansive liftback design, measuring a total of 210.5 inches in length. At the front, we see an evolution of Cadillac’s traditional face, which will be featured in the upcoming models soon (yay!). Here to mention are the expression of Cadillac’s vertical lighting and the organic light emitting diode (OLED) lighting elements. Have you seen the three-dimensional pattern in the grille design? The huge 22-inch wheels feature two layers of spokes are the perfect companion of this beautiful exterior.

Cadillac Escala Concept interior

On the inside, there are two independent spaces: the first one is in the front and features focused modern technology, while the rear delivers relaxation. In addition, an array of three curved OLED screens is part of the front of the cabin as well as new designs for connectivity and control. All of this is just a prototype for the future production Cadillacs. Everything else inside is handcrafted.

At last, but not least, Escala is driven by the 4.2-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine. Just like anything else here it is a prototype of a new system in development for future models. The unit uses Active Fuel Management technology, which shows exceptional fuel economy.

To sum up, the Cadillac Escala Concept is absolutely stunning inside and out! We think that if the automaker has the courage to build a production version close to this, they’d have a winner! This is probably, the best overall Cadillac design we’ve seen in years!

Cadillac Escala Concept side view

Source: Cadillac

August 19, 2016

Mazda reveals a new kind of Miata: sporty, beautiful and exclusive

Functional and flexible, this one is also limited!

Beautiful, passionate and yet simple and elegant, the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF made a quite dramatic debut at this year’s New York International Auto Show. Demonstrated with exclusive color combination and some sweet tweaks, the Grand Touring-based vehicle will definitely be pushing Mazda’s boundaries even further!

Something more: this show car is expected to become the offspring of a special limited lineup of just 1,000 units, bearing the name of MX-5 RF Launch Edition. Cool.

And here’s what we know so far

Mazda North American Operations will notify a special group of customers about the offering of the limited edition and exclusively will offer the vehicle with numerous tweaking features, one of which is the choice between SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Along with this and the exclusive Machine Grey finish, the lucky buyers will be granted with a custom-designed and numbered 42mm Tourneau watch to complement the limited run. Sweet.

And what about for the rest of Mazda fans?

Well, they will miss… nothing. All these “exclusive” features will be available for purchase, along with numerous more tweakable stuff: the Grand Touring trim level will be available, Auburn Nappa leather interior and badging, Club trim level and more.

This is what we know so far. Hopefully, there will be more news and more stuff revealed as soon as possible. Meanwhile, stick with us!

Source: Mazda

August 19, 2016

BMW 2002 Hommage Concept with cute new livery and dedication

Pays tribute to the glorious motor racing past of the turbocharged car

The next design study for today Mercedes steady rival, BMW. It has just revealed the 2002 Hommage concept with a new livery and dedicated to paying a tribute to the iconic turbocharged cars and motor racing victories. The design study is currently on display at the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach.

To get into the details, in 1973 was born a legend: the BMW 2002 turbo. It was the first series-produced vehicle in Europe, which featured turbo technology. In other words, this it was a “full-blooded sports car”. A lot of victories then followed such as the milestone achieved at the 1983 Formula One World Championship, where the car won for the first time the title for a turbocharged car. The driver was Nelson Piquet.

What can we say about the exterior BMW 2002 Hommage? It features sports styling, standing low to the ground and sporting compact proportions. It promotes irresistible dynamics and agility, due to its large spoilers at the front and rear, large air intakes and pronounced wheel arches.

BMW 2002 Hommage Concept rear view

Obviously, BMW has kept the design of the car very close to the original 2002 turbo car. However, there are a lot of new materials used like the carbon fiber line that physically wraps around the car from front to rear and the 20-inch alloys in bi-colour design as well as the gold-colored brake callipers bearing the M logo.

But probably the most striking feature of the exterior design is the front end: it has a styling that makes a bridge over a gap of 50 years. In other words, it combines the qualities of the horizontal grill graphic of the 02 series with modern elements of BMW design. Just like the 1973 car, the BMW 2002 Hommage also has two single round headlights. There are a lot of other details to talk about, like the gold-elements, large front apron that mimics those of the 70s and the “turbo” lettering. And not forgetting the cool surfaces in exposed carbon.

BMW 2002 Hommage Concept front end

Bringing matters to a conclusion, there is no surprise that the rear of the BMW 2002 Hommage also calls on elements of the 2002 turbo like the horizontal sub-division of car’s surfaces or the rectangular lights. Here, the muscular wheel arches accentuate the wide track, while the carbon diffuser integrates two sets of twin exhaust tailpipes and rounds out the rear styling.

BMW 2002 Hommage will be on display at the Pebble Beach Conccours d’Elegance on August 21st.

Source: BMW

August 19, 2016

Lotus Evora receives a neat upgrade: carbon and style will dominate the vehicle!

2016 Lotus Evora 400 Carbon Pack Lotus, one more time achieving more with doing less, presents some new upgrade tweaks for the Evora 400: there is a new Carbon pack, Lithium-Ion battery and some titanium components. Sweet! So, without further due, let’s check the bag of tricks!

Already available in markets worldwide, the first goodie, the Carbon Pack comes with numerous components and contributes to even greater savings for the overall weight. Being one of the brands that can be proud with its lightweight models, Lotus does not take it for granted and continues to impress us. The pack includes front splitter section, roof panel, rear wing centre, rear diffuser finish, front access panel and last, but not least, wing mirror caps.

Furthermore, all of the parts are handmade and altogether cut a total of 5kg (11lbs) of the overall weight. Of course, the pack has and a visual aspect: it contributes to the sporty and sexy design and adding value to the overall premium feel an look of the vehicle.

2016 Lotus Evora 400 Carbon Pack

Also, Lotus team has introduced a cup holder and oddment tray that are available for all Evora models. These additions are now standard for the USA and Canada specification vehicles and are optional for the EU and Asia. With a weight of just 120 grams, the cup holder shows how Lotus bows before customers’ demand and tries to deliver everything that the buyer needs.

So, tell me, how do you find the new additions? Write down in the comment section below!

Source: Lotus

August 19, 2016

Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 is the electric car we didn’t expect [w/video]

The newest design study coupe has a range of over 500 km and power of 750 hp

Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 is finally here! The design study shows the beautifully sculptured and ultra-stylish luxury-class coupe, which is somewhat reminiscent to the glorious aero coupes. But there is one big surprise about this concept: envisioned as a 2+2-seater and measuring 6 meters in length, the classically looking coupe is designed as… an electric car.

This might be a disappointment to may, but this is how it goes nowadays: almost every brand out there is obsessed with delivering the best electric automobile. So, the drive system has an output of 750 hp (550 kW) and is backed up by a battery allows with an estimated range of over 500 kilometers! Is this a take on Tesla, or what?

What we see is classic athletic proportions, extremely long bonnet and a low roof line as well as the rearward positioning of the greenhouse. An absolute recall of the retro classics! But there are some (what Mercedes calls) “technoid” references throughout the vehicle: for instance, the narrow lights, transparent 24-inch (!) rims and the split rear window.

Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 side view

Let’s say some words about the exterior: there are details that we like a lot, like the hot red paint scheme contrasted by the chrome elements. The conceptual vehicle exudes this bulging, muscular look, but at the same time keeps it sensual and dramatic.

Another striking detail is the reinterpretation of the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille. The company seems to have revived the old grill with its fine vertical struts that highlight the front end even further. Gullwing doors – who said they are outdated? Being a hallmark Mercedes design element, they underline the sporty character and bring about memories of brand’s past.

Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Interior

If the exterior looks retro, on the contrary – the interior is the absolute opposite: it is an extremely futuristic and luxurious 360° lounge, which is imbued with new materials and high-tech gadgets. The high-quality leather trim is done in such way that it offers a color scheme which perfectly supports the digital innovations. Digital control and display interfaces, open-pore wood and a set of two suitcases in front of the luggage area, are all part of the exclusive concept.

The round out the entire picture, we should also say some extra words about the emission-free driving, that this car offers. The 750 hp are due to the work of the four compact permanent magnet synchronous electric motors, which drive the four wheels. The shallow underfloor battery has a capacity of 80 kWh, which allows performance typical for a sports car. Precisely, Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds, while the top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h. The most fantastic detail however, is that battery’s range is over 500 kilometers according to the NEDC (and over 200 miles according to EPA).

The large coupe is currently making its debut at Monterey Car Week.

httpv://youtu.be/hVzdgN-Osiw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mercedes-Benz

August 19, 2016

Street Fight Mode: 707 HP Hellcat versus 850 HP Hennessey Hellcat [w/videos]

Hennessey shows the potential of its HPE850 Hellcat

It is clear that the stock Hellcat is a very cool muscle car. But it is also as plainly as anything that the modified Hennessey HPE850 Hellcat is better than any production version. But have you ever asked yourself, what exactly would happen between those two in a Street Fight. You don’t have to wonder anymore, because Hennessey Performance ha shot this amazing “Street Fight video”.

The Hellcat is probably one of the Seven Wonders in the automotive world. It looks great, has that muscle car stance and performance and it features attitude. Maybe, it is not everybody’s cup of tea, but hey, we live in a free world. And it is exactly what I like.

For those wanting more from their muscle car cat-beast, Hennessey Performance has produced the so called HPE850 Upgrade. As the name shows, it boosts the power of the 707hp Challenger to the potent 850 hp and this happens at 6,200 rpm.

httpv://youtu.be/Z9BlC6l4S0Q

Here’s the boring information: the upgrade comprises of new ECU and upgraded tuning software. By the way, you can see the chassis dyno testing in the second video featured in this post. Going back to the point, the HPE850 also adds high flow air filter element, lower pulley upgrade that increases boost by 1-2 psi, port matched throttle body, Hennessey embroidered head rests for the interior as well as Hennessey and HPE850 exterior emblems. As usual, the performance company has featured serial numbers on the dash plaque and plaque in the engine compartment.

At last, we all know that the Hennessey Hellcat HPE850 was going to win. Maybe the point in this video was to show how much faster Hennessey’s variant is.

httpv://youtu.be/A3QXhSWGaHo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey Performance

August 18, 2016

Category: Auto News

GeigerCars.de take full responsibility for this conversion

The seductive limited edition supersports car sold out months before official debut

Design

Power and performance

Overwhelming customer interest and positive feedback

More in-detail

Exterior tweaks

Interior

Escala Concept features design & technical ideas of the future Cadillacs

Functional and flexible, this one is also limited!

And here’s what we know so far

And what about for the rest of Mazda fans?

Pays tribute to the glorious motor racing past of the turbocharged car

The newest design study coupe has a range of over 500 km and power of 750 hp

Hennessey shows the potential of its HPE850 Hellcat